March 2018, Current Connect, KSG India

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INDEX
1. No confidence Motion 5
2. Special Status to Andhra Pradesh 5
3. Transformation of Aspirational Districts 6
4. IMPRINT-II 7
5. Sri Lanka declares State of Emergency 8
6. Enemy Property Act 8
7. Protected Area Permit 9
8. Vehicle Scrapping Policy 10
9. International Women’s Day 2018 11
10. Women Entrepreneurship Platform 11
11. Rajasthan passes Bill to give death penalty for Child Rape 12
12. Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 13
13. Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) 14
14. Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal 15
15. Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems 16
16. Co-operative Election Authority 18
17. Higher Educational Institutions granted autonomy 18
18. India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians 19
19. National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement 20
20. Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana 21
21. Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry 21
22. Social Security for Construction Workers 22
23. e- Office Programme 23
24. Know India Programme (KIP) 23
25. National E-Mobility Programme 24
26. Social security scheme 25
27. Integrated Scheme for School Education 26
28. Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) 27
29. LaQshya Programme 28
30. India, Vietnam ink three MoUs 28
31. Myanmar puts off border pact with India 29
32. Philippines to quit International Criminal Court 30
33. Namaste Shalom 30
34. India, France New Confidentiality Agreement 30
35. International Competition Network 31
36. Odisha: KISS to host ‘Commonwealth Big Lunch’ 32
37. ACI World 32
38. Indo-French Knowledge Summit 33
39. World Hindi Secretariat 33
40. World Happiness Index 33
41. WEF Energy Transition Index 34
42. International Solar Alliance Meets in Delhi 34
43. In-situ management of crop residue 35
44. Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) 36
45. Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) 38
46. Animal Welfare Board of India 39
47. Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences 39
48. Brazzaville Declaration 40
49. Yellow Fever 41
50. Global Status Report 2017 42
51. Conservation Assured | Tiger Standards (CA|TS) survey 43
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52. Neutrino project gets environmental nod 44

53. Newton-Bhabha Fund 45
54. A Floating Laboratory to save the Loktak Lake 45
55. World Wildlife Day – Wildlife Under Threat 46
56. Air-Breathing Electric Thruster 46
57. Earth Hour 2018 47
58. Naitwar Mori Hydro Electric Project 47
59. South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme 48
60. National Conference on Down Syndrome 48
61. The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) 49
62. Regulation of E-Cigarettes 49
63. Biggest space telescope Launch delayed 50
64. Rare Disease Day 50
65. 105th Indian Science Congress 51
66. Threat of new malware looms over cyberspace 51
67. Airtel acquires India leg of GBI submarine cable 52
68. Rydberg Polarons 53
69. Shakti Sthala 53
70. JNCASR’s novel material to convert waste heat into electricity 54
71. Govt. forms panel to probe illegal cultivation of HT Cotton 54
72. HAMMER Spacecraft 54
73. GSLV-F08/GSAT-6A Mission 54
74. Copernicus 55
75. Action Plan for Champion Sectors in Services 55
76. Important indices 56
77. Relief measures for telecom sector 58
78. Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) 58
79. National Financial Reporting Authority 58
80. Privatisation of PSBs 59
81. India Size Chart' Survey 61
82. Centre sets up Panel to study issues in Fintech Space 61
83. Continental Free Trade Area 62
84. Draft Policy on Defence Production 62
85. Exercises 64
86. Crime Free Zone Along International Border 66
87. Kuthiyottam Ritual 66
88. Nabakalebar festival 67
89. Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship 67
90. Tribal Diaries 68
91. Wings India-2018 68
92. Chipko Movement 69
93. Dr. Anandibai Joshi 69
94. Smart India Hackathon-2018 69
95. Diu becomes First UT to run 100% on Solar Power 69
96. Concept Clearing Assignment 70
97. P.T. Oriented Questions 71
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No confidence Motion
Why in News
The no-confidence motion notices against the NDA government, moved by
the TDP and the YSRCP for the Centre’s refusal to grant a special category
status to Andhra Pradesh.
No-confidence motion
While Article 75 of the Indian Constitution specifies that the council of ministers shall be
collectively responsible to the House of the People, there is no mention of a no-confidence motion
in the constitution: All it means is that the majority of Lok Sabha members must be with the
Prime Minister and his Cabinet.
The Rajya Sabha does not have a procedure for moving of an adjournment motion, censure
motion or no-confidence motion against the Government.
There is no mention of a no-confidence motion in the
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constitution.
Censure Motion, No-Day-
Procedure Yet-Named-Motion,
Article 118 of the Constitution permits each house Privilege Motion
of Parliament to make its own rules for conduct of business. Rule
198 of the Lok Sabha specifies the procedure for a motion of no-
confidence. Any member might give a written notice before 10 am; the Speaker will read the
motion of no-confidence in the House and ask all those favouring the motion be taken up to rise.
If there are 50 MPs in favour, the Speaker could allot a date for discussing the motion – but this
has to be within 10 days. However, this cannot be done in conditions of din or confusion in the
House.
What happens if both a motion for no-confidence and a motion for confidence are tabled?
In 1990, when V P Singh had tabled a motion of confidence and a member had given the notice
for a no-confidence motion, the Speaker had given precedence to government business and taken
the motion of confidence.
What happens if the prime minister loses a motion of confidence?
He has to resign, and the President has to identify another person who enjoys the confidence of
the Lok Sabha.
Special Status to Andhra Pradesh

Why in News
Andhra Pradesh Governor recently asked the Centre to expedite resolution of
all provisions in the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014, including according
special category status to the state.
What is the basis of A.P.’s claim for SCS status?
Following the bifurcation of A.P., Andhra lost a large volume of its revenue
due to Hyderabad remaining the capital of Telangana. In a debate in the Rajya Sabha on the A.P.
Reorganisation Act in 2014, then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had said that SCS would be
“extended to the Successor State of Andhra Pradesh for a period of five years.” This oral
submission by the then PM has been the basis for A.P.’s claim to the status.
14th Finance Commission viewpoint
The 14th Finance Commission did away with distinction between general and special category
states since it had taken into account the level of backwardness of states in the proposed transfer
of funds to states. The granting of special category status itself was restricted by the 14th Finance
Commission. It suggested that the resource gap of each state be filled through ‘tax devolution’,
urging the Centre to increase its share of tax revenues to the states from 32% to 42%. If
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devolution alone could not cover the revenue gap for certain states, the Commission said, the
Centre could provide a revenue deficit grant to these states.
What is Special Category Status?
Special Category Status used to be granted to some regions that have historically been at a
disadvantage compared with the rest of the country. This decision was taken by the National
Development Council (NDC), a body of the former Planning
Commission, and was based on various parameters such as: PEPPER IT WITH
1. Hilly and difficult terrain AP Re-organisation Act,
2. Low population density Gadgil-Mukherjee formula
3. Low resource base
4. Strategic location along the borders of the country
5. Economic and infrastructure backwardness
6. Non-viable nature of the state’s finances.
7. Sizable share of tribal population
They are seven States of North-Eastern regions (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura), Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal
Pradesh and Uttarakhand recognized as SCS by NDC.
Benefits availed by SCS
1. Preferential treatment in getting central funds assistance
2. Concession on excise duty to attract industries to the state
3. A significant 30 per cent of the Centre’s gross budget goes to the special category states
4. These states can avail the benefit of debt swapping and debt relief schemes
5. In the case of centrally sponsored schemes and external aid, special category states get
it in the ratio of 90 per cent grants and 10 per cent loans, while other states get 30 per
cent of their funds as grants.
6. Tax breaks to attract investment
Transformation of Aspirational Districts

Why in News
Cabinet Secretary recently in a meeting reviewed the progress of the
transformation of 115 Aspirational Districts. The meeting was attended by
the Prabhari Officers, the officer in-charge coordinating the exercise for
transformation of 115 Aspirational Districts along with the Secretaries and
representatives from 12 Union ministries.
Transformation of Aspirational District Scheme
1. The Government, in November 2017, identified 115 backward districts for rapid
transformation by 2022, the 75th year of India’s independence.
2. The strategy envisaged is to adopt a focused approach, ensure convergence of efforts of the
Central, State and local Government and establish a real time monitoring mechanism to
focus on outcomes that matter to common people in these backward districts beside giving
rise to a virtuous cycle of economic development.
3. For each of the Districts, a senior official in the rank of Additional secretary and Joint
secretary has been nominated as Prabhari officer.
Criteria of selection
A total of 115 districts have been identified for this purpose on the basis of objective criteria.
These districts include 35 districts which are affected by violence by Left Wing Extremists.
Such criteria include 49 indicators across 5 sectors:
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1. Agriculture and water resources

2. health & nutrition (institutional delivery, stunting of children and wasting in children)
3. education (elementary dropout rate and adverse pupil-teacher ratio)
4. infrastructure (un-electrified homes, lack of toilets, villages not connected by road and
lack of drinking water)
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5. financial inclusion and skill development
HMIS, MPLAD, Mission
Way Ahead Antyodaya, DAY-NRLM
If these districts are transformed, there would be tremendous
improvement in the internal security environment of the
country. If Prabhari officers can bring convergence in the development efforts of different
Ministries and state Governments and the schemes specially launched by Home Ministry in these
districts, it would serve as a great opportunity to ensure rapid development in the country. The
importance of convergence of the efforts of ASHA, ANM and Anganwadi workers can’t be
overlooked to trickle down the benefits till grass root level.
IMPRINT-II
Why in News
The Union Minister for Human Resources and Development recently said that
in a major boost for research and innovation in the country, the Central
Government has sanctioned a sum of Rs. 1000 crore for the phase two of
the Impacting Research Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT)
India programme.
IMPRINT
It is the first of its kind MHRD supported Pan-IIT + IISc joint initiative to address the major
science and engineering challenges that India must address and champion to enable, empower
and embolden the nation for inclusive growth and self-reliance. This novel initiative with twofold
mandate is aimed at:
(a) Developing new engineering education policy
(b) Creating a road map to pursue engineering challenges
IMPRINT provides the overarching vision that guides research into areas that are predominantly
socially relevant.
These projects cover crucial domains like security and defence, information technology, energy,
sustainable habitat, advance materials, health care, nano technology, climate change, etc.
Aim
Address all major engineering challenges faced by the nation by translating knowledge into viable
technology (product/process)
IMPRINT II PEPPER IT WITH
IMPRINT-2 has been approved by Government of India (GoI) SWIFT, ICEGATE portal
with a revised strategy under which, this national initiative will
be jointly funded and steered by MHRD and Department of Science and Technology (DST).
The project will be run as a separate vertical in coordination with the DST. Prof. Indranil Manna
of IIT-Kharagpur will be the National Coordinator.
Features
1. Principal objective is to translate knowledge into viable technology
2. About 425 projects with up to Rs 2 crore budget will be supported
3. MHRD and DST are equal partners to steer the scheme
4. IMPRINT-2 is open to all MHRD funded HEIs / CFTIs
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5. 27 ministries of GoI remain partners of IMPRINT-2

6. Projects with industry support will be preferred
Sri Lanka declares state of emergency

Why in News
Sri Lanka has imposed a nationwide state of emergency of 10 days for the first time since the
civil war era in response to days of violent unrest between Sinhalese and Muslim communities.
Issue
The violence in Kandy is understood to have been sparked when a group of Muslim men in
Digana town were accused of killing a man belonging to the majority Sinhala Buddhist
community, who make up about 75% of the population.
Some Buddhist nationalists (BoduBalaSena) have also protested against the presence in Sri
Lanka of Muslim Rohingya asylum-seekers from mostly Buddhist Myanmar, where Buddhist
nationalism has also been on the rise.
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Facts
Maldives’ political crisis
 Muslims make up about 9 percent of Sri Lanka’s 21 million
people. Buddhists make up about 70 percent and ethnic
Tamils, most of whom are Hindus, about 13 percent.
 Sinhalese: They are an Indo-Aryan-speaking ethnic group native to the island of Sri Lanka.
They constitute about 70% of the Sri Lankan population. The Sinhalese people speak the
Sinhalese language, an Indo-Aryan language, and are predominantly Theravada Buddhists,
although a small percentage of Sinhalese follow branches of Christianity.
 PM Ranil Wickremesinghe President Maithripala Sirisena.
 Kandy is a Sinhala majority city; there are sizable communities belonging to other ethnic
groups, such as Moors and Tamils. The city remains an important religious centre of
the Sinhalese and a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, namely those belonging to
the Theravada school.
 The Royal Palace of Kandy (known as Mahawàsala), located to the north of the Temple of the
Tooth (Daladà Màligàwa) in Kandy.
Enemy Property Act

Why in News
The government has started the process of monetisation of more than 9,400
enemy properties by issuing guidelines and directing the office of the
custodian to submit a list of all such movable and immovable assets.
The Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2017
 It voids the legal sales undertaken by enemies of enemy properties since 1968. This means
that a person who may have bought an enemy property in good faith when such sale and
purchase was legal, now stands to lose the property.
 It prohibits Indian citizens who are legal heirs of enemies from inheriting enemy property
and brings them within the definition of ‘enemy’.
 It prohibits civil courts and other authorities from hearing certain disputes relating to enemy
property.
 Retrospectively amends the definition from 1968 to include: (i) legal heirs of enemies even if
they are citizens of India; (ii) enemies who have changed their nationality; (iii) enemy firms
which have partners who are Indians, etc.
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What are enemy properties?

The term “enemy property” is derived from the Enemy Property Act of 1968 (EPA 1968), which
allowed the government to vest all property belonging to Pakistani and Chinese nationals in
India. This law was a result of the wars India fought with Pakistan and China in the 1960s.
Present scenario
1. The government has vested these properties in the Custodian of Enemy Property for India,
an office instituted under the central government and directing the office of the custodian to
submit a list of all such movable and immovable assets.
2. The move comes after the amendment of the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation)
Act 2017 and the Enemy Property (Amendment) Rules, 2018, which ensured that the heirs
of those who migrated to Pakistan and China during partition and afterwards will have no
claim over the properties left behind in India.
3. There are 9,280 properties left behind by Pakistani nationals and 126 properties which
belonged to Chinese nationals. The sale of enemy properties is expected to fetch around Rs
1 lakh crore for the government exchequer.
4. The central government will also constitute an Enemy Property Disposal Committee, with an
additional secretary of the MHA as chairman and an additional secretary and financial
adviser in the ministry, joint secretary in the Department of Disinvestment and Public Asset
Management, joint secretary in the Ministry of Law and Justice, chief engineer, CPWD,
Custodian of the enemy property for India as members, and the joint secretary in the MHA
dealing with the enemy property as member-secretary.
Protected Area Permit

Why in News
The Centre is set to relax the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime to enable
foreign tourists to access border areas.
Protected Area Permit (PAP)
Every foreigner except a citizen of Bhutan, who desires to enter and stay
in a Protected Area, is required to obtain a special permit called PAP from a competent authority
delegated with powers to issue such a special permit to a foreigner on application.
Under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, all areas falling between the ‘Inner line’,
as defined in the said order, and the International Border of the State have been declared as a
Protected Area. Currently, Protected Areas are located in the following States: -
1. Whole of Arunachal Pradesh
2. Parts of Himachal Pradesh
3. Parts of Jammu & Kashmir
4. Whole of Manipur
5. Whole of Mizoram
6. Whole of Nagaland
7. Parts of Rajasthan
8. Whole of Sikkim (partly in Protected Area and partly in
9. Restricted Area)
10. Parts of Uttarakhand
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Every foreigner except a citizen of Bhutan, who desires to enter and stay in a Restricted Area, is
required to obtain a special permit called RAP from a competent authority delegated with powers
to issue such a special permit to a foreigner on application.
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Under the Foreigners (Restricted) Areas Order, 1963, the following areas have been declared as
`Restricted’ Areas:
1. Andaman & Nicobar Islands - Entire Union Territory
2. Sikkim - Part of the State
Citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals of Pakistani origin are
not issued the permit without the Home Ministry’s approval.
Inner Line Permit
Inner Line Permit (ILP) is an official travel document issued by competent authority of GoI to
allow travel permission to Indian citizen into a protected area for a limited period.
Inner Line Permit is required for Indian citizens to enter Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and
Mizoram. Inner Line Permit is issued under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation.
Vehicle Scrapping Policy

Why in News
The much-awaited policy was given 'in-principle' approval at a high-level
inter-ministerial meeting at the PMO to pave way for scrapping of 20 years
old commercial vehicles (CVs) from April 1, 2020.
Key Highlights
1. The policy targets to take polluting vehicles out of the roads and help the automobile industry
register higher sales.
2. Medium and heavy commercial vehicles (M & HCVs) that PEPPER IT WITH
typically have a life of 20 years, would be eligible under the V-VMP policy, BS-VI
scheme. norm, Motor Vehicle Act
3. As per the Ministry’s draft on ‘voluntary vehicle fleet
modernisation plan,’ vehicles bought on or before March 31, 2005, would be eligible for the
scheme and get 50% waiver on excise duty, scrap value of the truck and additional discounts
from the original equipment manufacturers.
4. The benefit offered under the scrappage policy would be 15% of the vehicle’s price. But this
advantage would be muted as prices of diesel vehicles were expected to rise 10-15% once the
new norms (BS-VI) come into force.
5. The Road Transport and Highways Ministry is keen on implementing the Voluntary Vehicle
Fleet Modernisation Programme (V-VMP) policy that aims at scrapping 20-year-old
commercial vehicles in the first phase.
Concerns
 The new policy for scrapping of 20-year-old vehicles is likely have limited impact and may
not boost demand for new vehicles significantly as per Crisil Research.
 The total population of commercial vehicles that will be older than 20 years in fiscal 2021
would be 50,000 vehicles, much lower than the government's earlier estimate of 2.8 crore
vehicles and our internal estimate of 6,40,000 vehicles.
 Most of these older vehicles are used in rural areas and smaller towns by small fleet operators
who operate used vehicles and have limited financial resources to purchase new vehicles.
Thus, the proposed scrappage policy is unlikely to be materially positive for commercial
vehicle demand.
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International Women’s Day 2018

Why in News
International Women’s Day is being celebrated on March 8 across the world.
About
 This year, International Women’s Day comes on the heels of
unprecedented global movement for women’s rights, equality and justice. This has taken the
form of global marches and campaigns, including #MeToo and #TimesUp in the United
States of America and their counterparts in other
countries, on issues ranging from sexual harassment and PEPPER IT WITH
femicide to equal pay and women’s political representation. #YesIBleed Campaign, Nari
 Echoing the priority theme of the upcoming 62nd session Shakti Puraskar, WASH,
of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, UdyamSakhi Portal, Swachh
International Women’s Day will also draw attention to the Shakti 2018
rights and activism of rural women, who make up over a
quarter of the world population and are being left
behind in every measure of development.
The government has expanded the
 The first Women’s Day was celebrated on February Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
28, 1909, in New York by the Socialist Party of programme from 161 districts to all
America. the 640 districts in India.
 In 1910, a German activist Clara Zetkin proposed
the idea of celebrating Women’s Day in March at the The government has launched
1910 International Conference of Working Women in ‘Suvidha’, the 100% Oxo-
Copenhagen. biodegradable Sanitary Napkin,
Theme under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya
Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
The theme for International Women’s Day 2018 is ‘Time
is Now: Rural and urban activists transforming
women’s lives. The theme aims to encourage women to raise voice for their rights and promote
growing global movement to support gender parity.
Women Entrepreneurship Platform

Why in News
NITI Aayog launched the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), on the
occasion of International Women’s Day recently.
Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)
 WEP would provide a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem where women do not face any
gender-based barriers. The platform aspires to substantially increase the number of women
entrepreneurs who will create and empower a dynamic New India. WEP will provide
opportunities to women to realize their entrepreneurial aspirations, scale-up innovative
initiatives and chalk-out sustainable, long-term strategies for their businesses.
 The WEP theme song “Naari Shakti” composed and sung by Kailash Kher was released on
this occasion.
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 WEP is to operate within a broader framework of

industry collaborations and partnerships, which Festival of Innovation and
cut across sectors in the economy. From providing Entrepreneurship (FINE)
unique services such as credit evaluation of It is a celebration of country’s
women-led startups by CRISIL and potential Innovation potential, particularly
equity investments through an INR 10 crore fund those ideas which stem from
established by DICE Districts, the WEP opens up grassroots level including the citizen
avenues of growth and opportunity for women at the last mile and also a reflection
entrepreneurs. of power of children’s creativity. It is
 WEP was envisaged by the CEO NITI Aayog an initiative to recognise, respect,
during Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) showcase, reward innovations and to
last year in Hyderabad. The three pillars on which foster a supportive ecosystem for
WEP is built are:
innovators.
 Ichha Shakti (motivating aspiring
entrepreneurs to start their enterprise)
 Gyaan Shakti (providing knowledge and ecosystem support to women entrepreneurs to
help them foster entrepreneurship)
 Karma Shakti (providing hands-on support to According to the index India scored
entrepreneurs in setting-up and scaling up
an overall 41.7 points, ranking 49
businesses).
among 54 economies globally with
The WEP shall aim to: comparatively low in Women
1. Promote women entrepreneurship by collaborating Business Ownership percentages.
with various partner organisations.
2. Provide industry linkages & partner support to
women entrepreneurs Increase the visibility of existing schemes, programmes & services
across government and private sectors
3. Identify and address issues and bottlenecks through appropriate channels
4. Develop a national database through a centralised portal for registration of women
entrepreneurs
5. Provide evidence-based policy recommendations to develop a vibrant entrepreneurial
ecosystem
Way Ahead
While necessity and grit are often important to foster women entrepreneurship, strong
supporting conditions are an imperative for ensuring a high
business ownership by women. While India is yet to travel a long PEPPER IT WITH
road for scaling up opportunities that foster women Mastercard Index of Women
entrepreneurship, the potential presented by the country is Entrepreneurs, Women
vast. Women entrepreneurs have been carving out a niche for Business Ownership' index,
them across the globe, including India especially in niche and WomenInTech’ forum
unconventional businesses. However, there is significant
potential to harness the untapped potential of women’s
entrepreneurship in India.
Rajasthan passes Bill to give Death Penalty for Child Rape

Why in News
Rajasthan has passed a Bill providing for death penalty to those convicted
of raping girls of 12 years and below.
Background
The National Crime Records Bureau-2016 report ranked Rajasthan in the
fifth position in crimes against women, with 27,422 cases being reported in 2016. The total
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number of rape cases registered in 2016 came up to 3,656 – half a dozen of which involved
children under six years of age; 37 pertained to kids under 12; 195 were against those below 16;
and 539 concerned those between 16 and 18.
Key Highlights
1. It is the prime duty of the state and society to protect children against all odds and provide
them with an environment conducive for their mental and physical development. This is why
such heinous offences need to be dealt with an iron hand and The Criminal Laws (Rajasthan
amendment) Bill-2018 is introduced.
2. The Criminal Laws (Rajasthan amendment) Bill-2018, which found unanimous support
cutting across party lines, was introduced in the state assembly recently. The amendment
was carried out through the insertion of two sections (376-AA and 376-DD) into the Indian
Penal Code-1860.
3. Section 376-AA states that whoever rapes a girl of up to 12 years of age shall be punished
with death or rigorous imprisonment for a term that shall not be less than 14 years but may
extend to the remainder of his natural life. The convict will also be liable to pay a fine.
4. Section 376-DD – on the other hand – specifies that those found guilty of gang-raping a girl
of up to 12 years shall be punished with death or awarded rigorous imprisonment for a term
not less than 20 years and extending to the remainder of their natural lives. The convicts will
also be liable to pay a fine.
5. Rajasthan has become the second State, after Madhya Pradesh, to pass a Bill providing for
death penalty to those convicted of raping girls of 12 years and below.
6. The Bill will become a law after it gets the Presidential assent.
Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018

Why in News
The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Finance to
introduce the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 in Parliament. The
Bill would help in laying down measures to deter economic offenders from
evading the process of Indian law by remaining outside the jurisdiction of
Indian courts.
Key Highlights
1. Who is Fugitive economic offender? A fugitive economic offender has been defined as a
person against whom an arrest warrant has been issued for committing any offence (listed
in the schedule). Further the person has: (i) left the country to avoid facing prosecution, or
(ii) refuses to return to face prosecution. Some of the offences listed in the schedule are: (i)
counterfeiting government stamps or currency, (ii) cheque dishonour for insufficiency of
funds, (iii) money laundering, and (iv) transactions defrauding creditors. The Bill allows the
central government to amend the schedule through a notification.
2. How a person is declared an offender? A director or deputy director (appointed under the
Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002) may file an application before a special court
(designated under the 2002 Act) to declare a person as a fugitive economic offender. The
application will contain: (i) the reasons to believe that an individual is a fugitive economic
offender, (ii) any information about his whereabouts, (iii) a list of properties believed to be
proceeds of a crime for which confiscation is sought, (iv) a list of benami properties or foreign
properties for which confiscation is sought, and (v) a list of persons having an interest in
these properties.
3. What does the offender have to do? Upon receiving an application, the special court will
issue a notice to the individual: (i) requiring him to appear at a specified place within six
weeks, and (ii) stating that a failure to appear will result in him being declared a fugitive
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economic offender. If the person appears at the specified place, the special court will
terminate its proceedings under the provisions of this Bill.
4. The Bill will give the right to the government to confiscate the property of such economic
offenders in India and abroad. The Bill will also be applicable on the proxy-owned properties
of the economic offenders.
5. The Bill makes provisions for a Court (‘Special Court’ under the Prevention of Money-
laundering Act, 2002) to declare a person as a Fugitive Economic Offender.
6. The cases where the total value involved in such offences is Rs.100 crore or more, will come
under the purview of this Bill.
Significance PEPPER IT WITH
In order to address the lacunae in the present laws and lay PMLA 2012, NFRA, NPA
down measures to deter economic offenders from evading the
process of Indian law by remaining outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts, the Bill is being
proposed. This would also help the banks and other financial institutions to achieve higher
recovery from financial defaults committed by such fugitive economic offenders, improving the
financial health of such institutions. The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill 2018 is expected to
quicken and facilitate the seizure of assets of scheduled economic offender. More importantly,
the Bill addresses the trending habit of economic offenders to exit the country and stay abroad
to escape the legal proceedings in India.
Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT)

Why in News
A recent decision of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal’s Pune bench
allowing pharmaceutical companies to account for their spending on doctors
as a deductible expenditure has sparked off a fresh debate on ethics.
Issue
Since the companies are out of the purview of the Medical Council of India (MCI), money spent
on promotions, which in some cases could be gifts, travel, and hospitality and so on for doctors,
besides medical conferences and samples, can be claimed as deductible expenditure. Doctors
accepting such promotions may be violating the code of ethics of the MCI.
About ITAT
 ITAT is a quasi-judicial institution set up in January 1941 and specializes in dealing with
appeals under the Direct Taxes Acts.
 It was set up by virtue of section 5A of the Income Tax Act, 1922.
 It functions under the Department of Legal Affairs in the Ministry of Law and Justice.
 By virtue of Article 227 of the Constitution, the Tribunal is under the superintendence of
the High Court and thus subordinating to the High Court and is bound to follow the judgment
of the High Court in the State in which it functions and of the Supreme Court under Article
141.
 The Appellate Tribunal shall consist of judicial members and accountant members as
hereinafter defined.
 A judicial member shall be a person who has for at least ten years either held a civil judicial
post or been in practice as an advocate of a High Court, and an accountant member shall
be a person who has for at least ten years been in the practice of accountancy as a chartered
accountant.
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POWERS AND FUNCTIONS:

1. Power to Restore an Ex-parte order
2. Power to Restore Appeal PEPPER IT WITH
3. Power of Remand Securities Appellate
4. Power to Admit New Plea Tribunal, Benami law
5. Power of Review and Rectification
6. Power to Recall Its Order
Significance
The most essential quality of ITAT is imparting justice to the litigants by an inexpensive, forum
free from technicalities and its expert knowledge on the subject of Direct Taxes. It is noteworthy
that the success and achievement of ITAT has motivated the Government of India to constitute
similar Appellate Tribunals for indirect taxes i.e. Central Administrative Tribunal, Railway Claims
Tribunal, Foreign Exchange Appellate Board, etc. Indian tax administration and adjudication
needs urgent reforms. For this, a comprehensive performance analysis of ITAI is necessary. Also,
more studies should be conducted to identify the exact institutional weaknesses in tax
administration, improving which could help improve India’s low ranking on the “Paying Taxes”
parameter in the Ease of Doing Business Index.
Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal

Why in News
The Union Cabinet recently approved the setting up of a tribunal to settle a
row between Odisha and Chhattisgarh on sharing the waters of the river
Mahanadi.
Background
The Mahanadi water Dispute Tribunal shall determine water sharing among basin States on the
basis of the overall availability of water in the complete Mahanadi basin, contribution of each
State, the present utilization of water resources in each State and the potential for future
development.
As per provisions of the ISRWD Act, 1956 the Tribunal is required to submit its report and
decision within a period of 3 years which can be extended to a further period not exceeding 2
years due to unavoidable reasons.
As per provisions of the Inter-State River Water Disputes
PEPPER IT WITH
(ISRWD) Act, 1956, the Tribunal shall consist of a Chairman
ISRWD Act, Mahanadi Bachao
and two other Members nominated by the Chief Justice
of India from amongst the Judges of the Supreme Court Manch, Upper riparian state
or High Court.
1) Mr Justice A.M. Khanwilkar, Judge, Supreme Court of India as Chairman
2) Dr Justice Ravi Ranjan, Judge, Patna High Court as Member
3) Mrs Justice Indermeet Kaur Kochhar, Judge, Delhi High Court as Member
Bone of contentions
 The team Odisha government alleged that the Chhattisgarh government has been supplying
water from the controversial Kelo project to industries, instead of using it for drinking and
irrigation purposes.
 According to Odisha, Chhattisgarh reportedly plans to build 13 barrages across the
Mahanadi, in a plan to extract more water. Chhattisgarh has also been constructing 7 pickup
weirs (small dams) across the river.
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 Odisha govt. claimed that water flow will fall further after Chhattisgarh constructs six
industrial barrages — Kalma, Saradi, Basantpur, Mirauni, Sheorinarayan and Samoda —
on the Mahanadi. Incidentally, four of the structures have already been completed.
 The Chhattisgarh government defended the ongoing
projects by stating that they would impact less than Dry facts
4% of the river water. “These barrages are designed
1) By 2051, Odisha and
to store monsoon water, so they can be used in the
summer. No non-monsoon water will be stored. Chhattisgarh will need 36.18
MAF and 27.48 MAF water per
 Chhattisgarh has been against the setting up of a
year from Mahanadi
tribunal and argued that the water sharing
agreement was with the erstwhile Madhya Pradesh respectively.
government, before the state was carved out in 2000. 2) The total availability of water
from the river currently stands
Mahanadi Facts
at 40 MAF. This will only
 Mahanadi originates in Sihawa Mountains in
reduce as the years go by.
Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh terminating in
3) The total catchment area is 1.41
Bay of Bengal.
lakh square kilometres (45.73
 Total Length: 851km Odisha: 494 km Chhattisgarh:
% in Odisha and 53.9% in
357km
Chhattisgarh).
 Total drainage area of basin 141,589 km2
4) Over three crore people are
Chhattisgarh: 75,136 | Odisha: 65,238 |
likely to be affected across
Jharkhand: 635 | Maharashtra: 238
Chhattisgarh and Odisha
 It is bounded by the Central India hills on the
dispute.
north, by the Eastern Ghats on the south and east
and by the Maikala range on the west.
 The main soil types found in the basin are red and yellow soils, mixed red and black soils,
laterite soils, and deltaic soils.
 At Sambalpur the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River has formed a man-made lake 35
miles (55 km) long.
 It enters Orissa State below Baloda Bazaar and crosses the Eastern Ghats to enter the Plains
of Orissa near Cuttack.
 Tributaries of the Mahanadi include the Tel, Mand, and Hasdo rivers.
 On the environmental front, as many as six biodiversity hotspots in Odisha, including the
Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary, Chilika Lake, Tikarpada sanctuary and Chandaka elephant
reserve, directly depend on the river.
Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems

Why in News
Pune came on top in the fifth edition of the Annual Survey of India’s City-
Systems (ASICS), edging out Thiruvananthapuram which had topped the
previous two editions of the survey. Bengaluru was ranked at the bottom.
About
 ASICS is India's only independent benchmarking of cities using a systemic framework. It
evaluates India's city-systems: the complex, mostly-invisible factors (such as laws, policies,
institutions, institutional processes) that underpin urban governance and strongly
influence the quality of life in India's cities.
 ASICS is a health diagnostic of our cities; the better a city scores, the better it stands to
provide its citizens high quality of life in the medium to long term.
 ASICS aims to provide a common frame of reference for political and administrative leaders,
business and academia, media and civil society, in different cities to converge on their agenda
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for transformative reforms. In its 5th edition, ASICS 2017 brings insights and data on City-
Systems to the foreground.
 It is prepared by Janaagraha Centre for “City-systems” refer to laws,
Citizenship and Democracy, a Bengaluru-based policies, quality of institutions and
non-profit institution. accountability mechanisms that
drive or give rise to the quality of
Parameters
life that we experience in our daily
The cities were measured under four key components of
lives. ‘City-Systems’ are inter-
governance: urban planning and design; urban
capacities and resources; empowered and legitimate connected and interdependent and
political representation; transparency, and emphasize the systemic nature of
accountability and participation. our cities, their challenges and
solutions.
Performance of various cities
Challenges
1. The pace of reforms in India has been painfully slow. Recurring floods, garbage crises, air
pollution, fire accidents, building collapses and dengue outbreaks are symptoms of this
deeper governance crisis in our cities.
2. India’s cities have virtually no platforms where citizens can participate in matters in their
neighbourhood. This impacts not just municipal accountability, but the quality of democracy
itself.
3. Lack of a modern, contemporary framework of spatial planning of cities and design standards
for public utilities such as roads, footpaths, bus stops and other underground utilities such
as water and sewerage networks
4. Weak finances, both in terms of financial sustainability and financial accountability of cities
5. Poor human resource management, in terms of number of staff, skills and competencies of
staff, organisation design and performance management
6. Powerless mayors and city councils and severe fragmentation of governance across
municipalities, parastatal agencies and state departments
7. Total absence of platforms for systematic citizen participation and lack of transparency in
finances and operations of cities
Way Forward PEPPER IT WITH
ULBs, AMRUT, Smart Star-
The report underlines the need for sharp focus on city-
systems or institutional reforms to city governance in our Rating of Garbage-Free Cities
cities. This indicates slow progress on fixing city-systems
which is worrisome given the pace at which India is
urbanising and the already poor state of public service delivery in our cities.
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Co-operative Election Authority

Why in News?
The Haryana government recently announced that a Cooperative Election
Authority would be set up in the State for supervising the election process
in cooperative bodies.
The authority would have the powers of superintendence, direction and
control of the election process in the
cooperative organizations. Strengthening  Co-operatives were introduced to India in
the cooperative sector will enable people to 1904 when the Indian Co-operative
capitalize on their collective strength of Societies Act was promulgated.
human and economic resource.
 Right to from cooperatives is a
Constitution 97th Amendment Act, 2011
fundamental right
The constitution 97th amendment is mainly
 In India there are four major types of
aimed at encouraging the development of
cooperatives in India. As per the cooperatives –
amendment, the changes done to the i. The Primary agricultural credit or
constitution are: service societies
 In part III of the constitution, in ii. Agricultural non-credit societies
Article 19, after words “or unions” the iii. Agricultural co-operative marketing
words “Cooperative Societies” was societies
added. iv. Co-operative farming societies
 In Part IV of the constitution a new
Article 43B was inserted, which says
that The state shall endeavour to promote voluntary formation, autonomous functioning,
democratic control and professional management of the co-operative societies”.
 After Part IXA of the constitution, a new part- Part IXB was inserted to accommodate State
vs Centre roles. It added article 243ZH-ZT.
Higher Educational Institutions granted autonomy

Why in News
In a historic decision recently, the University Grants Commission has
granted autonomy to 60 Higher Educational Institutions which have
maintained high academic standards.
Implications of move
 Although these universities will remain within the UGC’s ambit, they will have the freedom
to launch new courses, off-campus centres, skill development courses, research parks and
new academic programmes.
 They will also have the freedom to hire foreign faculty members, enroll foreign students, give
incentive-based emoluments to faculty members, enter into academic collaborations and run
open-distance learning programmes.
 They will also be exempt from regular UGC inspections, obtaining appraisals on the basis of
self-reporting. Besides this, they will be allowed to hire global
talent for up to 20% of their total faculty strength and fill up
PEPPER IT WITH
20% of their seats with international students.
AICTE, HEEFA,
Criteria HEERA, UGC, SATH-E
The UGC had earlier approved the (Categorisation of Universities
for Grant of Graded Autonomy) Regulations-2018, under which
autonomy was granted to these institutes.
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1. Academic reputation and previous performance in university examinations and its

academic/co-curricular/extension activities in the past.
2. Academic/extension / research achievements of the faculty.
3. Quality and merit in the selection of students and
106th Indian Science Congress
teachers, subject to statutory requirements in
this regard. theme: “Future India: Science &
Technology” to be held at Bhopal.
4. Adequacy of infrastructure, for example, library,
equipment, accommodation for academic
Theme: “Reaching the
activities, etc.
Unreached Through Science &
5. Quality of institutional management Technology” held at Manipur.
Way Forward
This is certainly a welcome step. They have reduced the
oversight of the UGC, which is crucial. Its role has been extremely regressive and counter-
productive in the last few years. This will also reduce governmental interference in the day-to-
day affairs of universities. It will induct competition among institutions and propel them to
achieve international standards across globe. Autonomy will helps institutionalise quality and
accountability, thereby encouraging institutions to incorporate unique developments and
practices into the curriculum which will prepare the youth of India to embrace Industry 4.0 in
an efficient and effective way.
India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians

Why in News
The Union Cabinet has given its approval for closure of India Development
Foundation of Overseas Indians (IDF-OI) to enhance synergies in
channelizing Diaspora's contributions to Government of India's flagship
programmes such as National Mission for clean Ganga andSwachh Bharat
Mission.
About IDF-OI
1. IDF-OI was set up by Government of India with the approval of Cabinet in 2008 as an
autonomous not-for-profit Trust, to facilitate Overseas Indian philanthropy into social and
development projects in India.
2. IDF-OI used to promote flagship programmes of Government of India- Swachh Bharat
Mission and National Mission for Clean Ganga; and projects identified by the State Govts, for
funding by Overseas Indians.
3. IDF-OI receives a Grant-in-Aid from the Government of India for meeting its operational
expenses and administrative costs for its activities and outreach. Therefore, IDF-OI does not
deduct any operational or administrative charges from the contributions it receives from
Overseas Indians.
4. Chairperson: External Affairs Minister
Reason for shutdown
Its ambit of work was promotion of Government of India's Flagship programmes - National
Mission for Clean Ganga and Swachh Bharat Mission; and Social and Development projects
identified by State Governments - was added to the mandate of IDF-OI. In order to enhance
synergies, improve efficiencies and avoid duplication of work, it was decided by the 9 th Meeting
of Board of Trustees of the IDF-OI that the Trust would be closed down by March 31, 2018.
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National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement

Why in News
The Ministry of State for Home Affairs inaugurated the two-day first National
Conference on Drug Law Enforcement recently. The conference is being
organsied by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).
Issues on horizon
1. Narco-terrorism and its funding is a serious problem for the world, especially for India.
Inaugurating the two-day first National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement and
highlighting the challenge for law enforcement agencies and the society is to prevent drug
abuse among youth. The problem of drug trafficking assumes importance for India as it lies
in the “Golden Crescent” and “Golden Triangle” as a transit route for drug mafia.
2. Conference working sessions are focused on various topics such as ‘Wider context of drug
trafficking in India’, ‘Financial Investigations’ and
‘Foreign & Cyber Investigations’.
The National Policy on Narcotic
3. Involvement of foreign nationals in drug peddling Drugs and Psychotropic
poses another significant challenge of drug Substances is based on the
trafficking in India. During 2017, 332 foreign
Directive Principles, contained in
national have been arrested in drug cases in India.
Article 47 of the Indian
These foreign nationals were found involved in
trafficking of Cocaine from South America to India Constitution, which direct the
via Africa and trafficking of Heroin and Precursor State to endeavour to bring about
chemicals to South East Asia and Africa. prohibition of the consumption,
4. The illicit cultivation of Opium and Cannabis in except for medicinal purposes, of
some parts of India is a matter of concern and must intoxicating drugs injurious to
be suppressed and also diversion of precursor health.
chemicals and production and trafficking of New
Psychoactive Substances poses another challenge.
Government initiative against Drug trafficking
The Government has framed several strict policies and taken harsh initiatives to deal with drug
trafficking problem.
 It constituted Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) and revived the scheme of “Financial
Assistance to States for Narcotics Control”. Besides the government approved new Reward
Guidelines with increased quantum of reward for interdiction or seizure of different illicit
drugs.
 In pursuit of effective coordination with foreign countries including neighboring countries,
India has signed 37 Bilateral Agreements/Memoranda of Understanding over the period. In
last four years, India signed 5 Bilateral Agreements/MoUs with Australia, Singapore,
Mozambique, Thailand and Nepal in drug matters.
 Narcotics Control Bureau has been provided funds for PEPPER IT WITH
developing a new software i.e. Seizure Information
Golden Crescent, NDPS Act,
Management System (SIMS) which will create a
NCB, Golden Triangle
complete online database of drug offences and
offenders.
 The government has constituted a fund called “National Fund for Control of Drug Abuse”
to meet the expenditure incurred in connection with combating illicit traffic in Narcotic Drug,
Psychotropic Substances; identifying, treating and rehabilitating addicts, and educating
public against drug abuse, etc.
 The government is conducting National Drug Abuse Survey to measure extent, pattern and
trends of drug abuse in India through Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment with the
20
help of National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre of AIIMS.

Page

 The GoI also called for identifying drug syndicates & cartels and their kingpins and take stern
action against them to disrupt their illegal business. To stop the inflow of money generated
from illegal trade of narcotic drugs into our economy, proper financial investigation needs to
be conducted in each significant NDPS case.
 Unique initiatives are under taken to spread more awareness among the public particularly
among youth about ill effects of drug abuse and need to create adequate infrastructure for
treatment, rehabilitation and harm reduction for the victim of the drug abuse.
Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana

Why in News
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for
enhancing the scope of Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY).
About PMRPY
1. The Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana(PMRPY) Plan Scheme has
been designed to incentivise employers for generation of new employment,
where Government of India will be paying the 8.33% EPS contribution of the employer for
the new employment.
2. The scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
3. The Government of India will now contribute the Employer's full admissible contribution for
the first three years from the date of registration of the new employee for all the sectors
including existing beneficiaries for their remaining period of three years.
Eligibility Criteria
All establishments registered with Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) can apply for
availing benefits under the scheme.
Benefits
The informal sector workers would get social safety net and there would be more job creation.
Till now, the scheme has produced quite encouraging results and has added about 31 Lakhs
beneficiaries to the formal employment involving an expenditure of more than Rs. 500 crore.
Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry

Why in News
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for Central
Sector Scheme "Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry" for the
next three years from 2017-18 to 2019-20.
About Scheme
The core objective of the scheme is to improve the productivity and quality of silk through R&D
intervention. The focus of R&D intervention is to promote improved crossbreed silk and the
import substitute Bivoltine silk so that Bivotine silk production in India enhances to such a
level that raw silk imports become nil by 2022 thereby making India self-sufficient in silk.
The Scheme has four components –
1. Research & Development (R&D), Training, Transfer of Technology and IT Initiatives
2. Seed Organizations and farmers extension centers
3. Coordination and Market Development for seed, yarn and silk products and
4. Quality Certification System (QCS) by creating amongst others a chain of Silk Testing
facilities, Farm based & post-cocoon Technology Up-gradation, and Export Brand Promotion.
Brand Promotion of Indian silk will be encouraged through quality certification by Silk Mark not
only in the domestic market but in the Export market as well.
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Financial Outlay
A total allocation of Rs. 2161.68 Crore has been approved for the PEPPER IT WITH
implementation of the Scheme for three years from 2017-18 to
SMOI, CSB, Bivoltine silk
2019-20. The scheme will be implemented by the Ministry
through Central Silk Board (CSB).
Way Ahead
The scheme will promote Women Empowerment and livelihood opportunities to SC/ST and other
weaker sections of the society. The scheme will help to increase productive employment from 85
lakhs to 1 crore persons by 2020. This scheme creates the appropriate eco-system for greater
participation of States in implementing the Scheme as have an important role to play in
increasing the silk production of the country.
Social Security for Construction Workers

Why in News
The Supreme Court recently directed the Centre to frame a model scheme to
address the issues of education, health, social security and pension for
construction workers, saying they build not just infrastructure, but also the
nation.
Concerns
 The Centre and states are not addressing the
plight of construction workers despite Building and Other Construction
Parliament framing Building and Other Workers (Regulation of Employment
Construction Workers (Regulation of and Conditions of Service) Act:
Employment and Conditions of Service) Act Under the Building and Other
in 1996 for levy and collection of 1% cess on Construction Workers (Regulation of
cost of construction. Employment and Conditions of Service)
 Failing to get exact figure of funds collected so Act, 1996, every State Government has
far through the Cess, the top court said that "it to constitute a State Building and Other
is quite shocking that even the CAG does not
Construction Workers Welfare Board.
have all the figures and whatever figures are
The functions of the Board include
available, may not be reliable".
providing welfare and social security
 The figures presented to us by the CAG or even
the Standing Committee do not reflect such a measure in order to live a life of dignity
huge collection. Obviously, there is something such as immediate assistance to a
terribly rotten with the collection and beneficiary in case of accident, payment
accounting mechanism. of pension to the beneficiaries who have
Government initiatives to tackle issue completed the age of 60 years, loan and
1. The Government has enacted the Building and advances for construction of house,
Other Construction Workers (Regulation of paying amount in connection with
Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, premium for Group Insurance Scheme
1996 and the Building and Other Construction etc.
Workers’ Welfare Cess Act, 1996 with a view to
regulating the employment and conditions of
service of building and other construction workers and to provide for their safety, health and
welfare measures etc.
2. The Government has also enacted the Unorganized Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008 for
the social security and welfare of unorganized workers which includes building and other
construction worker.
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Court propositions
1. In preparing the model scheme, the Ministry of Labour and Employment is expected to
include within it, inter alia, issues and concerns of education, health, social security, old age
and disability pension and other benefits that are necessary for living a life of dignity as
postulated by the Constitution of India
2. It is also expect the model scheme to be framed and publicized within a specified time-frame
to be decided by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, preferably within six months, but
in any event on or before September 30, 2018.
3. The top court further directed all the state governments and union territories to constitute
an expert committee and bring out statutory rules within six months.
Way Forward
It has a strong flavour of social justice and is a serious attempt by Parliament to ensure that
building and construction workers are not exploited because of their poverty and their children
do not suffer their fate in terms of education, healthy living and whatever it takes to live a life of
dignity. Referring to the situation of construction workers, the bench said that many of them are
women and at least some of them have children to look after and "even they are victims of official
apathy".
e- Office Programme
About e- office programme
The Government of India, in recognition of the long-felt need for efficiency in
government processes and service delivery mechanisms, has included e-
Office as a core mission mode project (MMP) under the National
eGovernance Plan (NeGP) of Digital India Initiative. It is estimated that this
MMP has the potential of targeting over 2 lakh users.
This MMP aims at significantly improving the operational efficiency of the Government by
transitioning to a "Less Paper Office".
The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DAR & PG) is the nodal
department for implementation of e-Office project. National Informatics Centre (NIC) is the
technical partner in this project.
Objectives
1. To improve efficiency, consistency and effectiveness of government responses
2. To reduce turnaround time and to meet the demands of the citizens charter
3. To provide for effective resource management to improve the quality of administration
4. To reduce processing delays
5. To establish transparency and accountability
Know India Programme (KIP)

Why in News
Forty Indian-origin students from nine countries met Railways Minister
recently as part of Know India Programme, an initiative of the central
government to engage with the Indian diaspora in the age group of 18 to 30
years.
KIP
It is a flagship initiative for Diaspora engagement which familiarizes Indian-origin youth (18-30
years) with their Indian roots and contemporary India, through a three-week orientation
programme organised by the Ministry of External Affairs.
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Mission & Vision

Know India Programme of the Ministry of External Affairs is a three-week orientation programme
for diaspora youth conducted with a view to promote awareness on different facets of life in India
and the progress made by the country in various fields e.g. economic, industrial, education,
science & technology, communication & information Technology, culture. KIP provide a unique
forum for students & young professionals of Indian origin to visit India, share their views,
expectations & experiences and to develop closer bonds with the contemporary India.
Eligibility PEPPER IT WITH
Minimum qualification required for participating in KIP is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,
graduation from a recognized University /Institute or enrolled Namaste Shalom
for graduation and ability to speak in English. The applicant
should not have visited India through any previous Programme
of Government of India. Those who have not visited India before will be given preference.
National E-Mobility Programme

Why in News
Union Ministry of State (IC) Power and New & Renewable Energy, launched
the National E-Mobility Programme here, recently.
National E-Mobility Programme
The Programme aims to provide an impetus to the entire e-mobility
ecosystem including vehicle manufacturers, charging infrastructure companies, fleet operators,
service providers, etc.
The Programme will be implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) which will
aggregate demand by procuring electric vehicles in bulk to get economies of scale.
These electric vehicles will replace the existing fleet of petrol and diesel vehicles. EESL had
procured 10,000 e-vehicles last year and will issue a new tender very soon for 10,000 more e-
vehicles to cater to the growing demand.
It is a composite scheme using different policy-levers such as:
1. Demand side incentives to facilitate acquisition of hybrid/electric vehicles
2. Promoting R&D in technology including battery technology, power electronics, motors,
systems integration, battery management system, testing infrastructure, and ensuring
industry participation in the same
PEPPER IT WITH
3. Promoting charging infrastructure
FAME, SLNP, EESL,
4. Supply side incentives NEMMP-2020
5. Encouraging retro-fitment of on-road vehicles with
hybrid kit
Significance
 With these 20,000 electric cars, India is Ministry of Road Transport and
expected to save over 5 crore litres of fuel
Highways has launched a new mobile
every year leading to a reduction of over 5.6
app called 'SukhadYatra'
lakh tonnes of annual CO2 emission on the
sidelines of Paris Summit. Sukhadyatra mobile application has
been developed by National Highways
 The National E-Mobility Programme is a step
Authority of India (NHAI) and offers a
towards ushering in an era of clean, green
and future-oriented technologies in the number of convenient features
country. including real-time data waiting-time
 India has embarked on an ambitious e- at toll-plazas.
mobility plan and the government has taken
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the leadership in enabling e-mobility in India with the Government of India’s vision of
100% e-mobility by 2030.
 The Indian automobile industry is the sixth-largest in the world and accounts for a
whopping 22% of the country’s total manufacturing output. The large-scale adoption of
electric vehicles can play an important role in increasing the share of manufacturing in
India’s GDP from the current 15% to 25% by 2022.
Social Security Scheme

Why in News
The Labour ministry has proposed a comprehensive social security system
to provide retirement, health, oldage, disability, unemployment and
maternity benefits to 50 crore workers in the country, a month after the
government announced the National Health Protection Scheme announced
in the Budget.
Implementation PEPPER IT WITH
EPFO, ESIC, Equal
 The plan is to implement the scheme in three phases over
Remuneration Act
10 years, after which the government hopes to make it
universal. The scheme will be implemented in four tiers
with the government wholly financing the cost for people below the poverty line. The first
phase of the scheme will cost Rs
18,500 crore.
I. The first phase will see all
workers getting the bare
minimum, which includes
health security and retirement
benefits.
II. The second phase will see
unemployment benefits being
added to it while in the third
phase, other welfare measures
can be added.
 Its implementation would be
regulated and monitored by an
overarching regulatory body called
the National Social Security Council to be chaired by the prime minister with finance
minister, health minister and chief ministers of all states along with workers and employers
as its members.
Fund structure
The scheme will be largely funded from the Building and Construction Worker Cess and funds
allocated to other scattered schemes through the National Stabilisation Fund set up for the
purpose.
The 50 crore beneficiaries will be classified into four According to the survey conducted
tiers. by the National Sample Survey
1. The first tier will comprise destitute and people Organization (NSSO) in 2011-12,
below poverty line who cannot contribute for about 83 per cent or 39.14 crore
their security and hence the cost will be entirely persons out of total 47.41 crore
borne by the government under tax-based employed persons were employed
schemes. in unorganised sector.
2. The second tier will comprise workers in the
unorganised sector who have some
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contributory power but are not self-sufficient may be covered under the subsidised
schemes.
3. The third tier of beneficiaries will include those who either by themselves or jointly with
their employers can make adequate contribution to the schemes, so as to be self-
sufficient.
4. The fourth tier will comprise comparatively affluent people who can make their own
provisions for meeting the contingencies or risks as they rise.
Way Ahead
The central government is readying the blueprint for a social security scheme that is specifically
aimed as a safety net for workers in the informal labour sector. The draft social security code,
drafted by the Ministry of Labour& Employment, aims for universal coverage that includes those
who are outside the ambit of the EPFO and the ESIC. The scheme envisages mandatory pension,
insurance against disability and death, and maternity coverage, alongside optional medical and
unemployment coverage.
Integrated Scheme for School Education

Why in News
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) recently gave its nod to
form an Integrated Scheme on School Education. The scheme comes in the
backdrop of PM’s vision of Sabko Shiksha, Achhi Shiksha and aims to
support the States in universalizing access to school education from classes
pre-nursery to XII across the country.
Main Features of the Scheme:
 The new scheme subsumes Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha
Abhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education (TE).
 The vision of the Scheme is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education from
nursery to senior secondary stage in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goal
for Education.
 The main emphasis of the Integrated Scheme is on improving quality of school education
by focusing on the two T's - Teacher and Technology.
The objectives of the Scheme, across all levels of schooling, are:
1. Provision of quality education and enhancing learning outcomes of students;
2. Bridging Social and Gender Gaps in School Education;
3. Ensuring equity and inclusion at all levels of school PEPPER IT WITH
education;
SSA, RMSA, TE, MUSK
4. Ensuring minimum standards in schooling provisions;
5. Promoting vocationalization of education;
6. Support States in implementation of Right of Children to Free and Compulsory
Education (RTE) Act, 2009; and
7. Strengthening and up-gradation of State Councils for Educational Research and Training
(SCERTs)/State Institutes of Education and District Institutes for Education and Training
(DIET) as nodal agencies for teacher training.
Impact:
 The Scheme gives flexibility to the States and UTs to plan and prioritize their interventions
within the scheme norms and the overall resource envelope available to them.
 It will help improve the transition rates across the various levels of school education and
aid in promoting universal access to children to complete school education.
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 The Scheme, by providing quality education, aims to equip the children with varied skills
and knowledge essential for their holistic development and prepare them for the world of
work or higher education in the future.
 It would lead to an optimal utilization of budgetary allocations and effective use of human
resources and institutional structures created for the erstwhile Schemes.
Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)

Why in News
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the continuation
of Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) beyond
12th Plan for three years from 2017-18 to 2019-20 with a total outlay of
Rs.5,500 crore.
About PMEGP
PMEGP is a major credit-linked subsidy programme being implemented by the Ministry of
MSME. The Scheme is aimed at generating self-employment opportunities through
establishment of micro-enterprises in the non-farm sector by helping traditional artisans and
unemployed youth in rural as well as urban areas. A total of 4.55 lakh micro enterprises have
been assisted with a margin money subsidy of Rs 9564.02 crore providing employment to an
estimated 37.98 lakh persons from inception till 31.01.2018.
The maximum cost of the project/unit admissible under PEPPER IT WITH
manufacturing sector is Rs.25 lakh and under KVIC Act 2006, RGUMY,
business/service sector is Rs.10 lakh. PMRY
Implementation
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is the nodal implementation agency for
the PMEGP at the national level. At the state/district level, state offices of KVIC, Khadi and Village
Industries Boards (KVIBs) and District Industry Centres (DIC) are the implementing agencies.
Targets are fixed taking into account:
General category beneficiaries can
1. Extent of backwardness of State; avail of margin money subsidy of
2. Extent of unemployment; 25 % of the project cost in rural
areas and 15% in urban areas.
3. Extent of fulfillment of previous year targets;
For beneficiaries belonging to
4. Population of State/Union Territory; and special categories such as
5. Availability of traditional skills and raw material. Scheduled Caste/Scheduled
Tribe/OBC /Minorities/Women,
Following modifications/improvements have Ex-serviceman, Physically
been made in the Scheme: Handicapped, NER, Hill and
1. Merger of Coir Udyami Yojana (GUY) in PMEGP; Border areas etc. the margin
2. Mandatory Aadhaar and Pan card; money subsidy is 35% in rural
areas and 25% in urban areas.
3. Geo-tagging of
units;
4. Negative list under PMEGP amended allowing serving/selling non-vegetarian food at
Hotels/Dhabas and Off Farm/Farm Linked activities.
5. Dispensing the ratio of 30:30:40 for KVIC/KVIB/DIC.
6. Cap the working capital component for manufacturing units to 40% of the project cost
and for service/trading sector to 60% of the project cost.
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LaQshya Programme
Why in News?
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has recently announced the launch of
programme ‘LaQshya’, aimed at improving quality of care in labour room
and maternity Operation Theatre (OT).
 The programme will improve quality of care for pregnant women in labour
room, maternity Operation Theatre and Obstetrics Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and High
Dependency Units (HDUs).
 The LaQshya programme is being PEPPER IT WITH
implemented at all Medical College
Hospitals, District Hospitals and First Out of pocket expenditure, gratuitous
Referral Unit (FRU), and Community payment, National Health Policy-2017,
Health Center (CHCs) and will benefit Mission Indradhanush, Pneumococcal
every pregnant woman and new-born Conjugate Vaccine (PCV), Measles-Rubella
delivering in public health institutions.
(MR) vaccine, Pradhan Mantri Dialysis
 LaQshya will reduce maternal and newborn Program, AMRIT
morbidity and mortality, improve quality of
care during delivery and immediate post-
partum period and enhance satisfaction of beneficiaries and provide Respectful Maternity
Care (RMC) to all pregnant women attending public health facilities.
 The programme aims at implementing ‘fast-track’ interventions for achieving tangible
results within 18 months. Under the initiative, a multi-pronged strategy has been adopted
such as improving infrastructure up-gradation, ensuring availability of essential equipment,
providing adequate human resources, capacity building of health care workers and improving
quality processes in the labour room.
 The quality improvement in labour room and maternity OT will be assessed through NQAS
(National Quality Assurance Standards). Every facility achieving 70 per cent score on
NQAS will be certified as LaQshya certified facility. Furthermore, branding of LaQshya
certified facilities will be done as per the NQAS score. Facilities scoring more than 90, 80 and
70 per cent will be given Platinum, Gold and Silver badge accordingly.
 Facilities achieving NQAS certification, defined quality indicators and 80 per cent satisfied
beneficiaries will be provided incentive of Rs 6 lakh, Rs 3 lakh and Rs 2 lakh for Medical
College Hospital, District Hospital and FRUs respectively.
For more information on LaQshya programme please see current connect (December-
2018).
India, Vietnam ink three MoUs

In News
India and Vietnam inked three Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs),
including on cooperation between the Global Centre for Nuclear Energy
Partnership, India (GCNEP) and the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute
(VINATOM), after talks between Indian Prime Minister and Vietnamese
President.
Background
The purpose of the MoU is to strengthen the technical cooperation in the field of atomic
energy for peaceful purposes. Besides this, the two countries signed a MoU on economic and
trade cooperation aimed at establishing a framework for enhancing economic and trade
promotion.
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A work plan for the years 2018-2022 between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research
(ICAR) and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
of Vietnam was also signed between the two nations. The PEPPER IT WITH
purpose of this work plan is to promote cooperation in the Brahmos Missile, South China
transfer of technology and exchange of visits of technical experts Sea Dispute
in the fields of agriculture and allied.
Significance
1. Vietnam is an important partner in Southeast Asia under New Delhi’s Act East Policy and is
currently the country coordinator for India with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN) regional bloc, a role that will be handed over to Thailand later this year.
2. India-Vietnam trade stood at $6.24 billion in fiscal 2016-17 and the two sides have agreed to
raise this to $15 billion by 2020.
Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP)
 Government of India has approved the establishment of Global Centre for Nuclear Energy
Partnership (GCNEP) in September 2010. GCNEP is the sixth R&D unit under the aegis of
Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).
 It conduct research, design and development of nuclear systems that are intrinsically safe,
secure, proliferation resistant and sustainable.
 GCNEP will help in capacity building, in association with the interested countries and the
IAEA, involving technology, human resource development, education & training and giving a
momentum to R&D in enlisted areas.
Myanmar puts off border pact with India

In News
Myanmar has indefinitely deferred signing an agreement with India to
streamline the free movement of people within 16 km along the border.
India is keen to sign the agreement but Myanmar — citing “domestic
compulsions” — has asked more time before the agreement is sealed.
Myanmar has been dragging its
feet on the agreement. They have As per the proposal, there would have been no
asked for more time and are restrictions on the movement of people across the
reluctant due to domestic borders. The domiciles were to be allotted border
compulsions. They fear that if passes and those going across for agriculture, work or
they sign the pact, the to meet relatives should carry the pass at all times.
international agreement will have Both the countries intend to put a system in place
to be adhered to. after India raised the issue of movement of extremists and
Background smugglers freely across the border.
Recently, the Union Cabinet had India and Myanmar share a 1,643 km unfenced border
approved the agreement between along Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km),
India and Myanmar on land Manipur (398 km) and Mizoram (510 km) and permit a
border crossing to enhance ‘free movement’ regime up to 16 km beyond the border.
economic interaction between
people of the two countries.
To give it shape, the Centre had asked four States — PEPPER IT WITH
Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Rohingya Crisis, India–Myanmar–
Mizoram — that share the unfenced border with Thailand Trilateral Highway, Cox Bazar,
Myanmar to distribute “border pass” to all the Aung San Suu Kyi
residents living within 16 km from the border.
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Philippines to quit International Criminal Court

In News
Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte said that he was pulling the Philippines
out of the treaty underpinning the International Criminal Court (ICC), which
is examining his deadly drug war.
The Hague-based ICC announced last month it was launching a “preliminary examination” of
Duterte’s bloody anti-drug crackdown that has drawn international concern. Police say they have
killed nearly 4,000 drug suspects as part of the campaign, while
rights groups claim the toll is around three times the numbers PEPPER IT WITH
given by authorities. ICJ, PCA, Rome Convention
The outspoken Philippine leader, who is accused of stoking the Dalveer Bhandari
killings with inflammatory statements, has taken issue over the
Philippines becoming the first south-east Asian nation put under a preliminary examination by
the ICC prosecutor.
ICC
Opened in 2002, the ICC is the world’s only permanent war crimes court and aims to
prosecute the worst abuses when national courts are unable or unwilling. The Philippines,
under previous President Benigno Aquino, ratified in 2011 the Rome Statute which underpins
the ICC, giving the tribunal authority to investigate crimes on its soil.
Namaste Shalom
Indian Government launched the social media of “Namaste Shalom”, a
magazine devoted to India-Israel relations. The magazine is edited by
former MP Shri Tarun Vijay.
Government also announced that a food processing centre with collaboration
of Israeli expertise will be inaugurated in Aizwal, Mizoram next week on 7th
March. This will be the first such centre
in the North East region of India that is Ministry of Communications has launched the
being established with Israeli Cool EMS Service which will come into force this
collaboration. Set up at a cost of Rs 8-10 month. Cool EMS service is one-way service
crore, this centre is exclusively for from Japan to India which allows customers in
processing of citrus fruits. The project India to import Japanese food items for
has been set up with the tripartite personal use which is allowed under Indian
collaboration of Ministry of regulations.
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare,
Government of India, Government of
Israel and State Government of Mizoram. Though located in Mizoram, this centre will cater to
the whole North-East.
India, France New Confidentiality Agreement

Key Highlights
1. Stepping up strategic cooperation, India and France signed a pact that
will enable their defence forces to access each other’s facilities and
extend logistical support on a reciprocal basis. The deal, which is
similar to the logistical support pact with the US, is an indicator of the
strategic depth and maturity in defence ties between the two countries.
The pact will facilitate reciprocal provision of logistics support, supplies and services
between the armed forces of the two countries during authorised port visits, joint exercises,
joint training, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.
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2. The two sides also signed a new confidentiality agreement, replacing the 2008 pact that
shields government from sharing classified information on defence deals, including
the Rafale fighter aircraft deal. The pact is about the exchange and reciprocal protection
of classified or protected information.
3. The two sides also made common cause on maritime security, as they signed a joint
strategic vision on the Indian Ocean Region to counter more proactive and assertive
Chinese activities in the area. The cooperation on Indian Ocean will be crucial in order to
maintain the safety of international sea lanes for unimpeded commerce and communications
in accordance with the international law, for countering maritime terrorism and piracy, for
building maritime domain awareness, for capacity building and for greater coordination in
regional/ international fora in the region.
4. On the much-delayed Jaitapur nuclear power project, the two leaders reiterated the goal of
commencing work at the Jaitapur site “around the end of 2018” and encouraged NPCIL and
EDF to accelerate the contractual discussions in that respect. They signed an agreement
which prescribes a way forward for implementation of the project.
Once installed, the Jaitapur project will be the largest nuclear power plant in the
world, with a total capacity of 9.6 GW. It will contribute to achieving India’s goal of 40 per
cent non-fossil energy by 2030.
5. India and France also called upon all countries to work towards rooting out terrorist safe
havens and infrastructure, disrupting terrorist networks and their financing channels, and
halting “cross-border movement of terrorists”.
As France had played an active role in grey-listing Pakistan at the FATF last month, the
two leaders agreed to strengthen counter-terrorism in multilateral fora such as the UN,
GCTF, FATF and G20. They called upon all UN member countries
to implement the UNSC Resolution 1267 and other relevant PEPPER IT WITH
resolutions designating terrorist entities, in a reference to the Rafael Deal
global listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Maulana Masood Scorpion Submarines
Azhar. Saomitra Chatterjee
6. The joint statement also had a reference to China’s One Belt
One Road project. The two sides underlined that connectivity initiatives must be based on
key principles of international norms, good governance, rule of law, openness, transparency;
follow social and environmental standards, principles of financial responsibility, accountable
debt-financing practices; and must be pursued in a manner that respects sovereignty and
territorial integrity. The references to “sovereignty and territorial integrity” are clearly
aimed at the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor” which is being opposed by India.
In all, India and France inked 14 pacts in key areas of defence, security, nuclear energy and
protection of classified information, as well as cooperation in other areas including railways,
environment, solar energy, maritime awareness and checking trafficking of narcotic drugs and
psychotropic substances.
International Competition Network

In News
India hosted the 17th Annual Conference of International Competition
Network 2018 (ICN 2018) in New Delhi. This is the first time India is
hosting the ICN 2018 Annual Conference since it joined International
Competition Network (ICN) in 2009.
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ICN PEPPER IT WITH

It is an informal network comprising 138 competition Indo-US science and
authorities from 125 jurisdictions. This Annual Conference is technology forum (IUSSTF),
a key international platform in the field of competition law and Competition Commission of
policy and its 17th edition will bring together over 500 heads India, CPEC
and senior officials of competition authorities, non-
governmental advisors, distinguished legal experts and economists from over 100 countries.
Significance
1. The conference is in line with India’s ever-growing engagement with the world on vital policy
issues. With globalisation and digitalisation blurring the geographical boundaries for
business, need for international cooperation and experience-sharing has increased.
2. The Conference will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and strategies for effective
enforcement of competition law and for strengthening cooperation amongst the competition
authorities as they strive to promote and sustain competition in rapidly changing markets.
3. The ICN advocates adoption of superior standards and procedures in competition
enforcement around the world, formulates proposals for procedural and substantive
convergence, and facilitates effective international cooperation to the benefit of member
agencies, consumers and economies worldwide.
Odisha: KISS to host ‘Commonwealth Big Lunch’

In News
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Bhubaneswar, in partnership with
British Council, India, has hosted the ‘Commonwealth Big Lunch’.
Background
 British Council is celebrating 70 years of inception in Commonwealth countries. On this
occasion, it has organised a mega lunch. KISS is the only organisation from Asia to
be selected by British Council to host the Commonwealth Big Lunch.
 The motto of the programme is to encourage people to get
PEPPER IT WITH
together to celebrate their Commonwealth connections
through food. Commonwealth of Nations
BIMSTEC, TPP, SCO
 The Commonwealth Big Lunch is an international
initiative launched by UK PM Theresa May. The
initiative comes as the UK is set to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government
Meeting, bringing together up to 52 leaders from across the Commonwealth to London
and Windsor from 16-20 April.
ACI World
 Airports Council International (ACI) World announced the winners of the
prestigious 2017 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards.
 Mumbai scoops first place for airports in Asia-Pacific serving over 40
million passengers a year. In North America, the top spot goes to Toronto
Pearson and in Europe to Rome Fiumicino.
 ASQ is the only worldwide programme to survey passengers on their day of travel, measuring
passengers’ views of 34 key performance indicators. 74% of the world’s 100 busiest airports
are part of the ASQ network which delivers 600,000 individual surveys per year in 42
languages across 84 countries.
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 The ASQ Awards Ceremony will be held during the inaugural ACI Customer Excellence Global
Summit, to be held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada from 10–13 September 2018, hosted by
Halifax International Airport Authority.
Indo-French Knowledge Summit

The first ever Indo-French Knowledge Summit ended successfully with a
landmark agreement on mutual recognition of educational qualifications
between the two countries and a record 15 other MoUs between
universities and research institutions on joint initiatives and
partnerships. The two-day summit was held in New Delhi and coincided with
the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India.
The summit was organized by the French Embassy in India and co-hosted by the Ministry of
Human Resource Development, Government of India.
This agreement will go a long way in boosting the educational relationship between the two
countries, will encourage mobility of students from both the countries by facilitating possibilities
for them to continue their studies in the other country and would also promote excellence in
higher education through cooperation, university and research exchanges.
World Hindi Secretariat

The President of India inaugurated the World Hindi Secretariat building on
his visit to Mauritius.
The President noted that the 11th World Hindi Conference is going to be
held in Mauritius in August 2018. Apart from India, Mauritius is the only
country where this conference is being hosted for a third time.
Hindi has played an important role in society and culture in both India and Mauritius. It is a
global language and the Indian community, spread across the world, has preserved its culture
and traditions – and passed it to the next generation – through its linguistic traditions, including
Hindi. Hindi is being taught in about 175 universities in various countries.
World Happiness Index

 The World Happiness Report ranked 156 countries by happiness levels,
based on factors such as life expectancy, social support and corruption.
 Unlike past years, the annual report published by the U.N. Sustainable
Development Solutions Network also evaluated 117 countries by the
happiness and well-being of their immigrants.
 Finland has been ranked the happiest country in this year's report, while Burundi has been
placed last. But the real shocker is the fact that India has been ranked 133rd, 11 spots
below its ranking last year.
 Each country's score is broken down into seven
components. The first six are: Per capita gross domestic PEPPER IT WITH
product (GDP), healthy life expectancy, freedom,
generosity, social support and absence of corruption in Global Happiness council,
government or business. The seventh component is Gallup World Poll, Cantril
based on how survey responses differed from the predicted Ladder
value derived from the first six components.
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WEF Energy Transition Index

 India has been ranked at 78th, lower than its emerging market peers
like Brazil and China, among 114 countries on the World Economic
Forum's Energy Transition Index that was topped by Sweden.
 The report titled "Fostering Effective Energy Transition", ranks
countries on how well they are able to balance energy security and
access with environmental sustainability and affordability.
 The overall list was topped by Cold Fusion
Sweden, followed by Norway at the
India is taking tentative steps towards restarting
2nd position and Switzerland at
the 3rd rank. research into it, some 25 years after it was shut
down at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
 According to the report India has
(BARC) following global criticism heaped on
taken "bold measures" to
improve energy access, energy the idea.
efficiency, and to improve the Cold fusion seeks to produce nuclear energy
deployment of renewable without harmful radiation, complex equipment
sources of energy. and the application of very high temperatures
 Interestingly, between 2013 and and pressures. But it has no conclusive theory
2018, India improved its explaining it and flies in the face of a well-
performance score by 5.6 established physics law that goes against easy
percentage points, mainly with fusion of nuclei. There is no guarantee that
improved energy access, reduced every time a cold fusion or LENR experiment
subsidies and reduced import is done, energy will be produced.
costs.
International Solar Alliance Meets in Delhi

In News
India and France co-hosted first ISA summit at Rashtrapati Bhavan with
emphasis on finance and technology transfer.
India also pledged to generate 175 gigawatts-GW (including 100 GW from
solar) of electricity in India from renewable energy sources by 2022 and said that it would require
a mobilisation of investment of over $1 trillion by 2030. India called for concessional financing
and less-risky funds being made available for such projects.
Concerns
 Mobilising financial resources for additions to global solar capacity has become tougher after
the United States backed out from the Paris climate agreement, under which
industrialised countries have committed to provide $100 billion a year from 2020 onwards
to developing countries to help them fight climate change and implement mitigation and
adaptation measures.
 In 2014, the US offered about $2.7 billion in climate
PEPPER IT WITH
finance, a sum comparable with contributions from
UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol
Germany and France. If it refuses to finance climate
mitigation and adaptation in developing countries, SDG, US backs out of Paris Deal
industrialised countries could have a hard time
keeping their promise to offer $100 billion in climate finance every year from 2020.
 India has targeted to mobilise $1 trillion in financing and deploy solar capacities of
1,000 GW by 2030 as part of the strategy for the mitigation of climate change. However,
India can neither supply technology nor provide the financing needed for the massive capacity
addition envisaged by the ISA. Nor is India’s proposal to impose a safeguard duty on solar
34
equipment likely to inspire confidence among ISA members.

Page

Membership
 India, a founding member of the International Solar Alliance, said that membership of the
body will be thrown open to all countries that want to join the grouping, with no
restrictions on duration of sunlight or geographical location.
 When the International Solar Alliance was announced in 2015, 121 nations situated between
the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn and receiving 300 days of sunlight were
deemed eligible for membership.
Significance
1. The maiden International Solar Alliance Summit is not only an attempt to fight climate
change through cost effective renewable energy means but also a concerted attempt by India
to acquire a leadership role in the developing world where China, by virtue of its economic
prowess, has made huge inroads over the past two decades.
2. This Summit would help India to express power in a manner that is benign and rule-based,
unlike China’s more aggressive and expansionist postures in geo-politics. At the Summit,
India offered Line of Credit worth $1392.48 m for solar projects for African countries
besides Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This Line of Credit is being offered at interest rates
cheaper than Chinese commercial loans.
3. The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), signed
the Host Country Agreement.
4. The Agreement will give ISA a juridical personality and gives it power to contract, to acquire
and dispose off movable and immovable properties, to institute and defend legal proceedings.
Under this agreement, ISA shall enjoy such privileges, applicable tax concessions and
immunities as are necessary for ISA’s Headquarter to independently discharge its function
and programmes. ISA shall be deriving its status, privileges and immunities as per Article 10
of Framework Agreement.
In-situ management of crop residue

Why in News
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval
for ‘Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for in-situ Management of Crop
Residue’ in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of
Delhi.
Background
To address air pollution and to subsidize machinery required for in-situ management of crop
residue, a new Central Sector Scheme (100% Central share) in this regard in the States of Punjab,
Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the period 2018-19 to 2019-20 has been
proposed.
Beneficiaries:
 The government, under this fully centrally-funded scheme, will assist individual farmers,
cooperative societies, farmer producer organisations (FPOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), private
entrepreneurs and registered groups of women farmers.
 Respective State Governments through District Level PEPPER IT WITH
Executive Committee (DLEC) will identify various Paramparagat Krishi Vikas
beneficiaries and location - specific agricultural
Yojana, PMFBY, RKVY
equipment depending on the farming system and will
identify and select beneficiaries for establishment of Farm
Machinery Bank for Custom Hiring and procurement of
machines on individual ownership basis to avail the benefit in transparent and time bound
manner.
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Fund
The total outgo from the Central funds would be Rs. 1151.80 crore (Rs. 591.65 crore in 2018-19
and Rs. 560.15 crore in 2019-20).
Implementing Agencies
1) At the Central level the scheme will be administered by Department of
Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare. A National Steering Committee headed by
Secretary, DAC&FW will formulate the policy whether as Executive Committee chaired by
Additional Secretary will oversee the activities of the scheme
2) At the State level the nodal implementing agency will be the Department of Agriculture of the
concerned State Government. State Level Executive Committee (SLEC) chaired by Principle
Secretary (Agriculture)/ Agriculture Production Commissioner shall oversee the
implementation of the scheme in their State. The SLEC shall ensure that no crop residue
burning takes place in the farmer field.
3) The District Level Executive Committee shall be responsible for carrying forward the
objectives of the scheme for project formulation, implementation and monitoring in the
districts and will constitute Surveillance Committees involving farmers group / progressive
farmers to mobilize farmers for not burning the crop residue and will also ensure active
participation of Panchayati Raj Institutions.
Key Components of Scheme
 Establish Farm Machinery Banks for Custom Hiring of in -situ crop residue management
machinery. Financial assistance @80% of the project cost will be provided to the cooperative
societies of the farmers, FPOs, Self Help Groups, Registered Farmers Societies/ Farmers
Group, Private Entrepreneurs, Group of Women Farmers.
 Financial Assistance to the farmers for Procurement of Agriculture Machinery and Equipment
for in -situ crop residue management. Financial assistance @50% of the machinery/
equipment will be provided to individual farmer for crop residue management.
 Information, Education and Communication for awareness on in-situ crop residue
management will be facilitated via financial assistance to the State Government/ KVKs, ICAR
Institutes, Central Government Institutes, PSUs, etc.
Significance
1. When crop-residue is incorporated into soil, the soil’s physical properties and its water-
holding capacity are enhanced.
2. Organic residues and N fertilisers increase soil organic carbon and subsequently improve soil
structure and aggregate stability. By stabilising soil aggregates, soil organic matter is more
protected from microbial decay.
3. The use of organic residue management cover crops and manures can lead to soil organic
carbon accumulation by improving aggregation as well as reducing the need for synthetic
fertiliser application while providing crops with equally adequate amounts of nutrients.
4. Addition of organic residue to the soil reduces environmental pollution potential while
maximising the N-use efficiency and providing crops with sufficient N.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)

Why in News
European Investment Bank (EIB) and Indian Renewable Energy
Development Agency (IREDA) Ltd. have signed a loan agreement for a second
line of credit (LoC) of Euro 150 million on non-sovereign basis recently.
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Background
The line of credit of Euro 150 million is for tenure of 15 years including a grace period of 3 years,
and it will be used for financing Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency projects in India. More
than 1.1 million households are expected to benefit from clean energy produced with these funds.
The loan agreement was signed by Chairman and Managing Director, IREDA and Mr. W. Hoyer,
President, EIB in the presence of Union Minister of State (IC)
Power and New & Renewable Energy and MNRE. PEPPER IT WITH
Masala bonds, NBFI, Gift
About IREDA
City, Mini Ratna
 Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited
(IREDA) is a Mini Ratna (Category – I) Government of India Enterprise under the
administrative control of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
 IREDA is a Public Limited Government Company established as a Non-Banking Financial
Institution in 1987 engaged in promoting, developing and extending financial assistance for
setting up projects relating to new and renewable sources of energy and energy
efficiency/conservation with the motto: “ENERGY FOR EVER”
 IREDA’s mission is “Be a pioneering, participant friendly and competitive institution for
financing and promoting self-sustaining investment in energy generation from Renewable
Sources, Energy Efficiency and Environmental Technologies for sustainable development.”
The main objectives of IREDA:
1) To give financial support to specific projects and schemes for generating electricity and /
or energy through new and renewable sources and conserving energy through energy
efficiency.
2) To maintain its position as a leading organization to provide efficient and effective
financing in renewable energy and energy efficiency / conservation projects.
3) To increase IREDA`s share in the renewable energy sector by way of innovative financing.
4) Improvement in the efficiency of services provided to customers through continual
improvement of systems, processes and resources.
5) To strive to be competitive institution through customer satisfaction.
About EIB
EIB is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It
works closely with other EU institutions to implement EU policy and is also engaged in
multilateral financing. More than 90 per cent of its activity is in Europe but it is also a big investor
globally. EIB’s activities focus on four priority areas including innovation and skills, access to
finance for smaller businesses, infrastructure and climate & environment.
Mechanism of Operation
1) Lending: The vast majority of our financing is through loans, but we also offer guarantees,
microfinance, equity investment, etc.
2) Blending: Our support unlocks financing from other sources, particularly from the EU
budget. This is blended with loans to form a full financing package.
3) Advising: Lack of finance is often only one barrier to investment. We help with administrative
and project management capacity to facilitate investment.
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Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES)

Why in News?
The Odisha government is set to collaborate with Regional Integrated Multi-
Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) for strengthening its early warning
services and enhancing preparedness for management of hazards in the State.
 Odisha State Disaster Mitigation Authority (OSDMA) and RIMES would
forge a partnership in the field of drought monitoring and early warning for
different natural disasters.
 At present, India is chairing
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information
RIMES. Under the drought
Services (INCOIS) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences
monitoring system, both
institutions would work on a inaugurated the Ocean Forecasting System for
system to archive, analyse and Comoros, Madagascar, and Mozambique at the third
visualise data, besides Ministerial Meeting of RIMES held in 2017.
evaluating station performance The INCOIS has already been providing these
and validating forecast data. operational services to the Maldives, Sri Lanka and
 Similarly, RIMES is expected to Seychelles.
provide a one-stop risk The Ocean State Forecast Services (OSFS) provide
management system for all advance information on wave height, direction and
OSDMA needs. Odisha is period (of both wind waves and swell waves), sea surface
particularly concerned about currents, sea surface temperature, mixed layer depth
tsunami originating from the
(the well-mixed upper layer of the sea), depth of the 20-
Andamans. RIMES is already
degree isotherm (a measure of the depth of the
working with the Tamil Nadu
State Disaster Management thermocline), astronomical tides, wind speed and
Authority. direction and oil-spill trajectory.
About RIMES
 RIMES is an international and intergovernmental institution, owned and managed by
its Member States, for the generation and application of early warning information.
 RIMES evolved from the efforts of countries in PEPPER IT WITH
Africa and Asia, in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian
Ocean tsunami, to establish a regional early Kallkadal, World Meteorological
warning system within a multi-hazard framework Organization (WMO), National
for the generation and communication of early Geoscience Award, National
warning information, and capacity building for Meteorological and Hydrological
preparedness and response to trans-boundary
Services
hazards.
 It was established in April 2009 and operates from its regional early warning center
located at the campus of the Asian Institute of Technology in Pathumthani, Thailand.
 It aims to provide regional early warning services and build capacity of its Member States
in the end-to-end early warning of tsunami and hydro-meteorological hazards. Its mission
is of building capacity and providing actionable warning information towards forearmed,
forewarned and resilient communities.
 RIMES presently have 12 Member States: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Comoros, India, Lao
PDR, Maldives, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and
Timor-Leste.
 RIMES was registered with the United Nations under Article 102 in July 2009 and has
been supported since inception by UNESCAP and DANIDA.
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Animal Welfare Board of India

Why in News?
The headquarters of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has been
shifted from Chennai to Haryana's Ballabhgarh for "better coordination"
between the environment ministry and the the board.
Rule 3 of the Animal Welfare Board (Administrative) Rules, 1962 reads as 'The Headquarter
of the Board hall be at New Delhi or at such other place as the central government, may, after
consultation with the Board direct”.
About AWBI Rukmini Devi (born in 1904) was
 The Animal Welfare Board of India, the instrumental in its constitution donating the
first of its kind to be established by any Valmiki Nagar building to the Board and later,
Government in the world, was set up in in 1991, the DMK government allotted 1,400
1962, in accordance with Section 4 of the sq m of land in Chennai’s Thiruvanmiyur
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Acts solely for the AWBI’s use.
1960 (No.59 of 1960).
 Shrimati Rukmini Devi Arundale (Dancer and Social Activist) pioneered the setting up
of the Board, with its Headquarters at Chennai. She guided the activities of the Board for
nearly twenty years till her demise in
1986. PEPPER IT WITH
 The Board is a statutory advisory body Regulations for animals used in Films,
and consists of 28 Members. The term of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
office of Members is for a period of 3 (PCA Act), Jallikattu, Bharatanatyam Dance
years.
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences

Why in News
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Science (CCRAS) has initiated
Tribal Health Care Research Programme (THCRP) in 14 States through 15
Institutes under the Council.
The aim & objectives of THCRP are as under: -
1. To Study the living conditions of tribal people
2. To Collect information related to health statistics PEPPER IT WITH
3. To study dietetic habits, nature and frequency of Tribal Diaries app, TRIFED,
prevalent diseases, use of common medicinal plants AadiMahotsav
in the area
4. To provide medical aid at the door steps of tribals.
5. To propagate knowledge about
Ayurvedic concept of Pathyapathya
including hygiene habits, dietary "Sowa-Rigpa"(Science of healing) commonly
practice. known as Amchi system of medicine is one
of the oldest, living and well documented
6. To prevent diseases by adopting healthy
way of living & clean environment medical tradition of the world. It has been
(Swachhata) popularly practiced in Tibet, Mongolia,
7. To collect LHTs/folk medicines/ Bhutan, some parts of China, Nepal,
traditional practices prevalent in the Himalayan regions of India and few parts of
area. former Soviet Union etc.
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About CCRAS
The CCRAS is an autonomous body of the Ministry of AYUSH. It is an apex body in India for the
formulation, coordination, development and promotion of research on scientific lines in Ayurveda
and Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine.
CCRAS is actively involved in scientific process of drug development adopting prevalent
guidelines such as Good Clinical Practices Guidelines for ASU drugs (GCP-ASU), Ministry of
AYUSH and National ethical guidelines for Bio-Medical Research (ICMR), WHO guidelines for
traditional medicines etc. as per requirement and as feasible through its peripheral institutes.
New drugs developed& commercialized:
 AYUSH 82, an Anti-Diabetic Ayurvedic Formulation
 AYUSH SG an Anti- Rheumatoid Arthritis preparation.
The government has launched “E- Tribes” to expand tribal commerce and the availability
of tribal products over large area, reaping greater benefits for tribal artisans.
Brazzaville Declaration
 The Brazzaville Declaration was signed by the environment ministers of the Democratic
Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo, and Indonesia. It was signed in the third meeting
of partners of the Global Peatland Initiative.
 The declaration aims to highlight the countries’ commitment to sharing
knowledge, experiences and tools to help the peat-rich developing
countries in protecting their valuable peatlands. It is also supposed to
help protect the world’s largest tropical peatlands, the Cuvette
Centrale region in the Congo Basin.
 Peatlands, cover only 3 percent of the land surface but contain 30 percent of the world’s
organic soil carbon. This special type of wetlands is home to diverse flora and fauna and
provides essential ecosystems services that
support local livelihoods.
 However, peatlands are often drained for
agriculture, forestry and energy use,
sometimes involving burning for clearing
the ground. The deforestation or
degradation of forest cover on peatlands
creates a double hit for carbon emissions,
with losses from both standing tree biomass
as well as from the drying and degradation
of peat soils.
 Such changes also have implications for
biodiversity and livelihoods of local
communities, including fishing and
hunting.
The Cuvette Centrale is a region within the
What is Peat and where it is Found
Democratic Republic of the Congo that is
Peat is partially decayed plant material that bounded by the Congo river in the north,
accumulates under water-logged conditions east and west. In the south it is bounded by
over long time periods. Natural areas covered the Kasai river and further east by the
by peat are called peatlands. Terms border between rainforest and savannah. It
commonly used for specific peatland types are
includes an area of approximately 800 000
peat swamp forests, fens, bogs or mires. Peat
km2.
is found around the world – in permafrost
regions towards the poles and at high
40
altitudes, in coastal areas, beneath tropical rainforest and in boreal forests. Peatlands store
Page

large amounts of carbon. Although they cover less than three per cent of global land surface,
estimates suggest that peatlands contain twice as much as in the world’s forests.
Threats to Peat
 Despite their importance especially to climate change, there is significant uncertainty
around peatlands because their extent, status and dynamics have never been globally
mapped with sufficient accuracy.
 The major threat to the peat carbon stocks globally is drainage. Drained peatlands are
mainly used for agriculture and forestry, and peat is extracted for horticulture and energy
production. Drainage of peatlands and poor management can result in a variety of problems,
the most obvious of which are large and persistent peat fires, such as those in parts of
Southeast Asia and Russia in recent years.
 In addition to the often-reported recent loss of tropical peatlands, degradation remains a
significant source of emissions in many temperate and boreal countries after decades of non-
sustainable use. In boreal areas, permafrost is thawing, causing land subsidence and
potentially leading to high greenhouse gas emissions. Further degradation and loss of peat
ecosystems, regardless of their location, could seriously hamper climate change mitigation
and adaptation efforts and the achievement of the Paris Agreement.
 Although there has not been a detailed or comprehensive global assessment, it can be stated
with confidence that improved management of peatlands – reducing their drainage and
degradation – can be achieved with available tools and measures.
Global Peatland Initiative
Peatlands are wetlands that contain a mixture of decomposed organic material, partially
submerged in a layer of water, lacking oxygen. The Global Peatlands Initiative is an effort by
leading experts and institutions to save peatlands as the world’s largest terrestrial organic
carbon stock and to prevent it being emitted into PEPPER IT WITH
the atmosphere. The current greenhouse gas
emissions from drained or burned peatlands are Green Economy, Food and
estimated to amount up to five percent of the global Agriculture organisation, Wetlands
carbon budget — in the range of two billion tonnes CO2 International, UNEP
per year.
Partners to the Initiative will work together within their respective areas of expertise to improve
the conservation, restoration and sustainable management of peatlands. In this way the
Initiative will contribute to Several Sustainable Development Goals, including by reducing
greenhouse gas emissions, maintaining ecosystem services and securing lives and
livelihoods through improved adaptive capacity. One of the first outputs of the Global
Peatlands Initiative will be an assessment, which will focus on the status of peatlands and their
importance in the global carbon cycle. It will also examine the importance of peatlands for
national economies.
Yellow Fever
 Yellow fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. The
"yellow" in the name refers to the jaundice that affects some patients.
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 Symptoms of yellow fever include fever, headache, jaundice, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting
and fatigue. A small
proportion of patients who The yellow fever virus is an arbovirus of the flavivirus genus
contract the virus develop and is transmitted by mosquitoes, belonging to the Aedes
severe symptoms and and Haemogogus species. The different mosquito species
approximately half of those live in different habitats some breed around houses
die within 7 to 10 days. (domestic), others in the jungle (wild), and some in both
 The virus is endemic in habitats (semi-domestic).
tropical areas of Africa and Yellow fever can affect monkey and human. If a mosquito bites
Central and South America. a monkey that has the fever, they can pass it to humans. After
Large epidemics of yellow having it once, a person is generally immune, meaning
fever occur when infected that they are unlikely to have it again.
people introduce the virus
into heavily populated areas with high mosquito density and where most people have little or no
immunity, due to lack of vaccination. In these conditions, infected mosquitoes of the Aedes
aegypti specie transmit the virus from person to person.
 Yellow fever is prevented by an extremely effective vaccine, which is safe and affordable. A single
dose of yellow fever vaccine is sufficient to confer sustained immunity and life-long protection
against yellow fever disease and a booster dose of the vaccine is not needed. The vaccine provides
effective immunity within 30 days for 99% of persons vaccinated.
 Good supportive treatment in hospitals improves survival rates. There is currently no specific
anti-viral drug for yellow fever.
 The Eliminate Yellow fever Epidemics (EYE) Strategy launched in 2017 is an
unprecedented initiative. With more than 50 partners involved, the EYE partnership supports
40 at-risk countries in Africa and the Americas to prevent, detect, and respond to yellow fever
suspected cases and outbreaks.
Global Status Report 2017

In News
It is published by UN Environment and the International Energy Agency.
Context
 The ‘Global Status Report 2017: Towards a zero-emission, efficient,
and resilient buildings and construction sector, was prepared by the
International Energy Agency (IEA) for the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction
(GABC). The GABC aims to bring together the building and construction industry,
countries and stakeholders to raise DSR 2017 has listed the EMC campus
awareness and facilitate the global transition
(Kerala) as one of the recent
towards for low-emission, energy-efficient
achievements in the deployment of
buildings.
key technologies for energy-
 Buildings and construction together
efficiency in buildings. The 40,000-
account for 36% of global final energy use
square foot building is the only one
and 39% of energy-related carbon dioxide
(CO2) emissions when upstream power from India to figure in the list, along
generation is included. with five other projects worldwide.
 The energy intensity per square meter (m2) of
the global buildings sector needs to improve on average by 30% by 2030 (compared to
2015) to be on track to meet global climate ambitions set out in the Paris Agreement.
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Significance
 This Global Status Report 2017 reconfirms the
significance of the buildings and construction sector PEEPER IT WITH
in global energy consumption and related emissions. IEA, Smart City, Urban Heat
It also shows that efforts to decarbonise the sector are Island, Paris Agreement
progressing, thanks to implementation of comprehensive
policy frameworks, deployment of low-carbon and energy-efficient technologies, better
building design approaches and solutions, and an improving investment market.
 While the pace and scale of improvement is still not enough to meet global climate ambitions,
noteworthy examples highlighted in this report nevertheless show that increased effort can
still deliver on those objectives, while also bringing forward multiple positive economic, social,
health and environmental benefits.
GABC
The Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GABC) is an initiative launched at
COP21, as part of the Lima Paris Action Agenda. It aims to mobilise all stakeholders, including
member states and non-state actors from the Buildings and Construction sector to scale up
climate actions in the sector. The GABC focuses on the achievement of the low-carbon and
energy transition through fostering the development of appropriate policies for
sustainable, energy efficient buildings, which allows a concrete value-chain transformation
of the sector.
Conservation Assured | Tiger Standards (CA|TS) survey

 Only 13 per cent of the tiger conservation areas met the global
standards of an accreditation system, the Conservation Assured |
Tiger Standards (CA|TS), a new survey of current management
methodologies at 112 sites located in 11 tiger-range countries, including
India, said.
 The survey is the first and largest rapid assessment of site-based tiger conservation across
Asia and has been driven by 11 conservation organisations and tiger-range governments that
are part of the CA|TS coalition.
 Under the accreditation system of CA|TS, tiger conservation areas provide evidence under
seven pillars and 17 elements of critical management activity to demonstrate that they
meet a range of criteria for effective conservation management.
 To date, three sites - Lansdowne Forest Division in
PEPPER IT WITH
Uttarakhand, India, Chitwan National Park in Nepal and
Sikhote-Alin Nature Reserve in Russia - have been awarded NTCA, Orange Tiger Reserve
CA|TS Approved status. Project Tiger, Tiger Census
 The CA|TS was developed in response to the need for
stringent conservation procedures for protection of the big cat through a partnership between
governments and conservation organisations to assess the levels of effective management,
among others. Of the 112 global sites surveyed, only 12.5 per cent was currently able to meet
the full CA|TS criteria.
 CA|TS is an important tool in the achievement of the Convention on Biological Diversity -
CBD’s Global Aichi Targets. It works closely with IUCN.
Major Highlights
1. Half of the assessed sites (52.5 per cent) report fairly strong management, although there are
improvements needed. The remaining 35 per cent (the majority of which are in Southeast
Asia) have relatively weak management. Basic needs such as enforcement of laws against
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poaching, engaging local communities and managing conflicts between people and wildlife,
remain weak for all areas surveyed.
2. Positive findings highlight the fact that tiger monitoring is being implemented in 87 per
cent of the sites and all sites surveyed in South Asian and East Asian countries like
Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal and Russia have management plans.
3. However, several sites in Southeast Asia, including countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia,
Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand, did not have management plans and about 85 per cent of
the sites also had no systems for assessing management effectiveness.
4. Despite poaching being one of the greatest threats faced by big cats, 85 per cent of the areas
surveyed do not have staff capacity to patrol the sites effectively and 61 per cent of the areas
in Southeast Asia have a very limited anti-poaching enforcement.
5. Low investment from governments in Southeast Asia was one of the reasons for the lack of
management of these supposedly “protected areas”.
Way Forward
An ineffective management of tiger conservation areas led to the extinction of tigers from certain
areas. To halt and reverse the decline of wild tigers, effective management is thus the single-most
important action. To achieve this, long-term investment in tiger conservation areas is absolutely
essential and this is a responsibility that must be led by the tiger-range governments.
Unless governments commit to sustained investments in the protection of these sites, the tiger
population might face catastrophic decline that they had suffered over the last few decades.
Neutrino project gets environmental nod

In News
The India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) project has got a fresh lease of
life with the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) taking it up as a
special case and granting it environmental clearance (EC) to set up the lab in
Bodi West hills (Tamil Nadu).
The panel was informed that there was no scope for radioactivity and leaching of water and these
have been explained to the courts. The project proponents clarified that studies showed there
would be no impact of blasting on any habitation in the vicinity.
Two conditions
While granting EC, the committee stipulated specific conditions, of which two are key for the
project to take off. One is the consent to establish
and operate to be obtained from the Tamil Nadu Fluorimeter
Pollution Control Board (TNPCB). Also, the INO
 The instrument, "Fluorimeter", has
team has to obtain the necessary forest and
been developed by the DAE.
National Board for Wild Life clearances as per law.
The Mathikettan Shola National Park in Idukki  The device would help in detecting
district, Kerala, is situated within five km from the traces of uranium in water. It will
project site. be especially helpful in areas like
Punjab where uranium traces in
About INO
water sources have been found to
 The project, which is to come up at be at dangerous levels.
Pottipuram village in Tamil Nadu, comes
at an investment of Rs 1,500 crore. The project will be funded jointly by the
Department of Science and Technology and Atomic Energy, while the infrastructure
will be created with the help of the Tamil Nadu government.
 The detector will be put underground, because on the surface, there are other
interactions, which will completely submerge the Neutrino event.
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 India will also seek international participation in the project, so that it turns out to be an
international hub for high-end research such as CERN in Geneva. However, Indian
participation in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) project will continue.
Neutrino
 Neutrinos are one of the fundamental particles which make up
PEPPER IT WITH
the universe. They are also one of the least understood.
LHC, Gravitational
 Neutrinos are similar to the more familiar electron, with one Waves, LIGO, Neutron
crucial difference: neutrinos do not carry electric charge. Star, Black Hole,
Because neutrinos are electrically neutral, they are not BIRAC
affected by the electromagnetic forces which act on
electrons. Neutrinos are affected only by a "weak" sub-atomic
force of much shorter range than electro-magnetic and are therefore able to pass through
great distances in matter without being affected by it.
 Three types of neutrinos are known; there is strong evidence that no additional neutrinos
exist unless their properties are unexpectedly very different from the known types. Each type
or "flavor" of neutrino is related to a charged particle (which gives the corresponding neutrino
its name). Hence, the "electron neutrino" is associated with the electron, and two other
neutrinos are associated with heavier versions of the electron called the muon and the tau.
Newton-Bhabha Fund
In News
An India-UK Joint Team has won the Newton-Bhabha Fund for a project on
Groundwater Arsenic Research in Ganga River Basin.
The Department of Science and Technology has undertaken the project with
the Natural Environment Research Council, UK, to find solutions to the
water challenges faced in the pervasively arsenic-affected Ganga River
Basin.
The team members involved with the project will try to assess how the problem of arsenic
poisoning can get aggravated in the next 25 to 30 years and influence groundwater management
practices and suggest water remedial technologies accordingly.
The project will be conducted from three sites - Bijnor and PEPPER IT WITH
Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and Nadia in West Bengal.
National Water Commission
Newton Bhabha Fund Cauvery Water Dispute
1. The Newton Bhabha Fund, provided by the British Council, Mahanadi Water Dispute
aims to bring together the UK and Indian scientific research Drip and Sprinkle irrigation
and innovation sectors to find joint solutions to the
challenges facing India in economic development and social welfare.
2. The Indian team comprises representatives of the IIT Kharagpur, the National Institute of
Hydrology, the IIT Roorkee and the Mahavir Cancer Sansthan and Research Centre of Patna.
3. The UK team consists of representatives of the University of Manchester, the British
Geological Survey, the University of Salford and the University of Birmingham.
A Floating Laboratory to save the Loktak Lake

In News
Rising urbanisation and land-use change over the years has seen the Loktak
Lake, the largest in the northeast, become a dump-yard for the city’s
municipal waste, ranging from plastic refuse to chemical runoff from farming.
This worsens during years of floods.
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The model of a floating laboratory ties into a larger initiative by the Centre’s Department of
Biotechnology (DBT) to monitor the health of aquatic systems in the northeast. Last September,
the DBT announced plans to have multiple floating
boats cruising the 3,500-km Brahmaputra river PEPPER IT WITH
and collecting water samples to track its health. KeibulLamjao National Park, Orange
The health of the lake also affects the Phumdis, or National Park, Sangai Deer, Okhla Bird
the unique ‘floating islands’, of the Loktak lake. Sanctuary
These islands, made of a mix of vegetation and soil,
coalesce to form a thick mat that, for centuries, has hosted huts and fishing settlements.
Loktak Lake
 It is the largest freshwater (sweet) lake in North -East India, also called the only Floating
lake in the world due to the floating phumdis (heterogeneous mass of vegetation, soil,
and organic matters at various stages of decomposition) on it, is located near Moirang
in Manipur state, India. The KeibulLamjao National Park, which is the last natural refuge
of the endangered sangai or Manipur brow-antlered deer, one of three subspecies of Eld's
Deer, is situated in the southeastern shores of this lake and is the largest of all the phumdis
in the lake.
 Considering the ecological status and its biodiversity values, the lake was initially designated
as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. It was also listed
under the Montreux Record, "a record of Ramsar sites where changes in ecological character
have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur".
World Wildlife Day – Wildlife Under Threat

Every year March 3 is celebrated as World Wildlife Day to raise awareness
about our planet’s flora and fauna.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna
and Flora (CITES) was finalised on March 3 and the day has been celebrated
as World Wildlife Day since 2014.
This year the theme is “Big cats —
A Rs 5 crore insect museum with the state-of-the-
predators under threat."
art amenities was unveiled at the Tamil Nadu
UN World Wildlife Day 2018 featured a Agricultural University.
star-studded cast — cheetah, clouded
leopard, jaguar, leopard, lion, puma, The museum, established at a 6,691 sqft. area, is
snow leopard, tiger. These most fully dedicated to insects and claimed to be the first
majestic predators on our planet are of its in the country.
facing many and varied threats,
primarily caused by human activities, be it habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict or
climate change.
Air-Breathing Electric Thruster

In a world-first, an European Space Agency - led team has built and fired
an electric thruster to ingest scarce air molecules from the top of the
atmosphere for propellant, opening the way to satellites flying in very
low orbits for years on end.
Replacing onboard propellant with atmospheric molecules would create a new
class of satellites able to operate in very low orbits for long periods. Air-breathing electric
thrusters could also be used at the outer fringes of atmospheres of other planets, drawing on the
carbon dioxide of Mars, for instance.
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Earth Hour 2018

 Earth Hour was started by the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) to ‘call for greater
action on climate change’.
 It does so by encouraging millions of people around the world to switch
off their lights and electrical appliances for 60 minutes to ‘show they
care about the future of our planet’.
 Earth Hour 2018 will be the initiative’s 11th year. The event started in
Sydney back in 2007 when 2.2 million people and 2,100 businesses switched off their lights
for an hour.
 The WWF hopes Earth Hour will inspire people to become more environmentally-friendly and
make ‘sustainable life choices’ that includes energy consumption in homes, diets and choice
of transport.
 Earth Hour 2018 started at 8.30 pm GMT on March 24 2018. It lasted 60 minutes.
Naitwar Mori Hydro Electric Project

The foundation stone of the 60 MW Naitwar Mori Hydro Electric Project
(NMHEP) in Uttarkashi (Uttarakhand) was laid down recently.
The Proposed Naitwar Mori Hydro Electric Project (NMHEP) is located on the
river Tons – a tributary of the Yamuna, in Uttarkashi district of
Uttarakhand. This run-of-the river project was allocated to SJVN Ltd by the Government of
Uttarakhand. SJVN Ltd is a Mini Ratna PSU under administrative control of the Ministry of
Power, Govt. of India.
With environment clearance accorded in
2016, all statutory clearances for the project Surat has become the first district in the
are in place. Major civil works were awarded country to have 100 percent solar powered
in December 2017 and the project is Primary Health Centers (PHC).
scheduled to be completed by December, There are a total of 52 PHCs in the district and
2021, in a period of 4 years. It will have two all of them are now powered by solar system.
underground generating units of 30 MW This initiative will not only bring down
each. The estimated project cost at October the electricity Bill by 40 percent but also help
2016 PL is Rs. 648.33 crore with a debt fight global warming.
equity ratio of 70:30. Levelised tariff is Rs.
6.39 per unit.
Significance
Naitwar Mori Hydro Electric Project will add 265.5 Million Units of renewable energy to the grid
and would result in CO2 emissions reductions to the tune of PEPPER IT WITH
0.21 Million tons annually. Besides socio-economic development
Indus Water Commission
and employment generation, the project would provide 12 per
cent free power to Government of Uttarakhand and 1 per cent Hydro Projects in J&K
additional for Local Area Development Fund (LADF). Cauvery Water Dispute
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South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme

In News
The Union Cabinet has approved signing of a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) between India and South Asian Cooperative Environment Programme
(SACEP) for cooperation on the response to Oil and Chemical Pollution in
the South Asian Seas Region.
About
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Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will be the Competent National Authority and
Bioremediation
national operational contact point for implementation of "Regional Oil
Spill Contingency Plan" under the MoU and shall respond to oil and IMO, Coral Reefs
chemical spills on behalf of Government of India. Further, ICG Maritime
Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) will be the national emergency response centre for marine
incidents.
The MoU intends to promote closer cooperation between India and other maritime nations
comprising the South Asian seas region namely Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka
for protection and preservation of marine environment in the region.
SACEP
In order to promote and support protection, management and enhancement of the environment
in the South Asian region, the Governments of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka established the SACEP in 1982 in Sri Lanka.
The SACEP jointly with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) developed a "Regional Oil
Spill Contingency Plan" to facilitate international co-operation and mutual assistance in
preparing and responding to a major oil pollution incident in the seas around the Maritime States
of Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
National Conference on Down Syndrome

In News
A’ National Conference on Down Syndrome’ was organised by the National
Trust under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. A book entitled
“Twilights Children” based on the lives of person suffering from Down
Syndrome was released on the occasion.
In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared to observe 21st March as World Down
Syndrome Day (WDSD) and since then every year, this day is officially observed by UN to create
awareness about people with Down Syndrome.
PEPPER IT WITH
Down Syndrome National Conclave on Psychological
Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition Trauma, Child Protection, and Mental
associated with intellectual and learning Illnesses, Print Biennale India 2018,
disabilities. Delayed development and behavioral
Autism
problems are often reported in children with it.
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder and the most common autosomal chromosome abnormality
in humans, where extra genetic material from chromosome 21 is transferred to a newly formed
embryo. These extra genes and DNA cause changes in development of the embryo and fetus
resulting in physical and mental abnormalities. Each patient is unique and there can be great
variability in the severity of symptoms.
National Trust
 The National Trust is a statutory body set up by an Act of Parliament for the Welfare of
Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities under
the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social
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Justice & Empowerment.

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 Since, the inception, the National Trust has been running various schemes and programmes
for the welfare of these persons with disabilities. Amongst these one of the major activities is
creating awareness amongst the general public by organizing various workshops, seminars
and conferences on these disabilities and the capabilities of such persons.
The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS)

About
 It is a mission by NASA and SPaceX.
 The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) is the next step in the
search for planets outside of our solar system, including those that
could support life. The mission will find exoplanets that periodically block part of the light
from their host stars, events called transits. TESS will survey 200,000 of the brightest stars
near the sun to search for transiting exoplanets.
 TESS will find the most promising exoplanets orbiting our PEPPER IT WITH
nearest and brightest stars, giving future researchers a BeiDou, Insight Mars Mission
rich set of new targets for more comprehensive follow-up Falcon, SpaceX
studies.
 In addition to its search for exoplanets, TESS will allow scientists from the wider community
to request targets for astrophysics research on approximately 20,000 additional objects
during the mission through its Guest Investigator program.
 The transit method of detecting exoplanets looks for dips in the visible light of stars and
requires that planets cross in front of stars along our line of sight to them. Repetitive, periodic
dips can reveal a planet or planets orbiting a star.
Regulation of E-Cigarettes
In News
WHO recently released its report on E-Cigarettes.
Key Highlights
As per a report prepared by WHO, Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems
(ENDS) (also known as e-cigarettes) emits nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco
products. In addition to dependence, nicotine can have adverse effects on the development of the
foetus during pregnancy and may contribute to cardiovascular
disease. PEPPER IT WITH
The WHO report further says that although nicotine itself is not ENDS, COTPA 2003
a carcinogen, it may function as a “tumour promoter” and seems Alcohol Prohibited States
to be involved in the biology of malignant disease, as well as of
neurodegeneration. Foetal and adolescent nicotine exposure may have long-term consequences
for brain development, potentially leading to learning and anxiety disorders. The evidence is
sufficient to warn children and adolescents, pregnant women, and women of reproductive age
against ENDS use and nicotine.
E-cigarettes
It produce an aerosol by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine—the addictive drug
in regular cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products—flavorings, and other chemicals
that help to make the aerosol. Users inhale this aerosol into their lungs.
Using an e-cigarette is sometimes called “vaping.” E-cigarettes can be used to deliver marijuana
and other drugs.
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Biggest space telescope Launch delayed

In News
NASA has delayed the launch of its much awaited, $8 billion James Webb
Space Telescope — set to be the world’s biggest space observatory — until
at least May 2020.
The telescope is currently undergoing final integration and test phases that
will require more time to ensure a successful mission.
James Webb Telescope
 The James Webb Space Telescope will be complementing the scientific discoveries of NASA’s
Hubble Space Telescope and other science missions. The
observatory will solve mysteries of our solar system. PEPPER IT WITH
 The James Webb Space Telescope (sometimes called JWST or Jupiter’s polar storm
Webb) will be a large infrared telescope with a 6.5-meter primary Stephen Hawkings
mirror. The telescope will be launched on an Ariane 5 rocket from Geomagnetic Storms
French Guiana in 2020.
 Webb will be the premier observatory of the next decade, serving thousands of astronomers
worldwide. It will study every phase in the history of our Universe, ranging from the first
luminous glows after the Big Bang, to the formation of solar systems capable of supporting
life on planets like Earth, to the evolution of our own Solar System.
 Webb was formerly known as the "Next Generation Space Telescope" (NGST); it was
renamed in Sept. 2002 after a former NASA administrator, James Webb.
Rare Disease Day

 It takes place on the last day of February each year. The main objective
of Rare Disease Day is to raise awareness amongst the general public and
decision-makers about rare diseases and their impact on patients' lives.
 The campaign targets primarily the general public and also seeks to raise
awareness amongst policy makers, public authorities, industry
representatives, researchers, health professionals and anyone who has a genuine interest in
rare diseases.
 Rare Disease Day was first launched by EURORDIS and its Council of National Alliances
in 2008. The campaign started as a European event and has progressively become a world
phenomenon, with the USA joining in 2009 and participation in over 90 countries all over
the world in both 2017 and 2018.
Rare Disease
 A disease or disorder is defined as rare in Europe when it affects less than 1 in 2000.
 A disease or disorder is defined as rare in the USA when it affects fewer than 200,000
Americans at any given time.
 80% of rare diseases have identified genetic origins whilst others are the result of infections
(bacterial or viral), allergies and environmental causes, or are degenerative and proliferative.
50% of rare diseases affect children.
 Over 6000 rare diseases are characterised by a broad diversity of disorders and symptoms
that vary not only from disease to disease but also from patient to patient suffering from the
same disease.
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In News
Indian PM inaugurated the 105th Indian Science Congress at Manipur
University. This is just the second time in over a century that the Indian
Science Congress is being held in the North-East.
Background
This congress focused on translational science for 106th edition of the Indian
promoting affordable sustainable innovation. During the Science Congress will be held
five days, thrust was given on various science disciplines, next year from 3rd to 7th
which has reached to the society. In a way, discussions were
January, 2019 at Barkatullah
on science for all, Science and Technology Fostering
University Bhopal, with the
Inclusive Societal Development and Science & Society:
Bridging the Gap through Innovations. theme, “Future India: Science &
Technology”.
Significance
Scientific temper has been a part of ancient Indian heritage
and every achievement is a continuation of ancient India’s scientific achievements. Due to the
efforts of scientists, India figures in top 10 positions in
PEPPER IT WITH
the world on various parameters. The process of “brain
Scientific Temper, Fundamental
drain” has been reversed into “brain gain” with hundreds
of scientists returning to serve the nation. Scientists Duties, Innovate in India
were urged to put their heart and soul into finding new
solutions to the problems facing the nation and improve the quality of life of common man.
Stressed was laid on the need to ensure that the fruits of development reach out to the unreached
people of the 115 aspirational districts of the country.
Threat of new malware looms over cyberspace

In News
A new threat looms large on the horizon of cyberspace. After Mirai and Reaper,
cybersecurity agencies have detected a new malware called Saposhi, which
is capable of taking over electronic devices and turning them into ‘bots’,
which can be then used for any purpose, including a Distributed Denial
Of Service attack which, with
Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), a
enough firepower, can cripple entire
central government body that deals with cyber
industries.
attacks, had issued an alert about reaper, a highly
Saposhi was detected around 15 days
evolved malware capable of not only hacking devices
ago and is currently being watched
like WiFi routers and security cameras, but also able
and studied. Saposhi is similar in its
intensity to Reaper, which was taking to hide its own presence in the bot — a device taken
over millions of devices at the rate of over by a malware.
10,000 devices per day.
Malwares like Saposhi, Reaper and Mirai are primarily aimed at DDoS attacks, in which the
malware first creates a network of bots — called a botnet — and then uses the botnet to ping a
single server at the same time. As the number of pings is far beyond the server’s capacity,
the server crashes and denies service to its
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consumers.
CIMON (Crew Interactive, Mobile
In 2016, Mirai, using a botnet of 5 lakh devices, had
Companion), WannaCry,
caused the servers of Dyn, a leading domain name
Ransomware, Mirai and Reaper.
service provider, to crash, affecting services of popular
websites like Twitter, Netflix and Reddit.
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How a malware works?

 A malware is released into cyberspace, with specific instructions programmed into it. The
instructions direct the malware to take over as many devices connected to the internet
as possible.
 Depending on its programming, the malware turns internet-connected devices into ‘bots’ and
starts building a botnet.
 Malwares like Reaper and
Saposhi are capable of
identifying weaknesses in
devices and exploiting them
to turn the devices into bots.
 Once a large enough botnet
is created, simultaneous
pings are sent to a single
server, causing a server
failure, which is called a
Distributed Denial of
Service attack.
 Depending on the size of the botnet, malwares can execute multiple DDOS attacks at the
same time, or over a period of time.
Airtel acquires India leg of GBI Submarine Cable

Telecom major Bharti Airtel has acquired India leg of Gulf Bridge
International submarine cable which will boost its data carrying capacity.
Under the agreement, Airtel will acquire the ownership of the India leg of GBI’s
India-Middle East-Europe submarine cable. Airtel will also pick up a
significant capacity on Middle East-Europe leg of GBI’s cable system.
Significance
1. Submarine cables are considered backbone of internet. Airtel PEPPER IT WITH
and GBI have also agreed to formulate joint “go to market” TAPI pipeline, Urja
strategies and leverage the footprint of their respective global
Ganga, NSTC, CPEC
networks to serve global customers.
2. With this, India is adding a large capacity to meet the growing data, content demand in
markets as well as serve the connectivity needs of global carriers and enterprise customers.
3. With this new investment Airtel now has large capacities—owned and leased — on multiple
international submarine cable systems and offers the multiple number of connectivity routes
between India and Europe.
GBI
 Established in 2008, GBI’s mission was to connect the Arabian Gulf countries and to
meet the growing demand for capacity providing onward connectivity to the rest of the
world over its subsea and terrestrial cable systems.
 GBI operates a multilayer, carrier-neutral network that provides direct reach to most
countries in the Middle East, extending connectivity Westward into Europe and East towards
India and the Asia Pacific.
 GBI is a carrier of choice for telecom operators, ISPs and governments throughout the Middle
East, Europe and Asia offering capacity and a portfolio of wholesale and enterprise services.
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Rydberg Polarons
 An international team of physicists have successfully created a “giant
atom” and filled it with ordinary atoms, creating a new state of matter
termed “Rydberg polarons”. These atoms are held together by a weak
bond and are created at very cold temperatures.
 It uses ideas from two different fields: Bose Einstein Condensation and
Rydberg atoms.
 In this work, the authors used laser
A BEC (Bose Einstein Condensate) is a liquid-like
light on a BEC of strontium atoms
so that it impinges on one state of matter that occurs at very low
strontium atom at a time. This temperatures. A BEC can be perturbed to create
excites an electron into a large excitations which are akin to ripples on a lake. Here,
orbit, forming a Rydberg atom. This the authors have used a BEC of strontium atoms.
orbit is large enough to encircle
many other strontium atoms inside A ‘Rydberg atom’ is an atom in which an electron
it. has been kicked out to a very large orbit. These
have interesting properties and have been studied for
 As the electron moves around many
strontium atoms, it generates a long time.
ripples of the BEC. The Rydberg
atom becomes inextricably mixed with these ripples and forms a new super-atom called
a ‘Rydberg polaron’.
Significance
 This new, weakly bound state of matter is an exciting
new possibility of investigating the physics of ultracold PEPPER IT WITH
atoms. PSLV and GSLV, Cryogenic
 A particularly interesting implication is for cosmology. Engine, MARK III, IRNSS
Our universe is believed to be filled with a Mars Orbiter Mission
mysterious ‘dark matter’ which exerts a
gravitational force on other matter.
 Some theories of dark matter postulate that it is a cosmic Bose Einstein Condensate, perhaps
composed of an as-yet-unknown type of particle. If we are indeed living in an invisible all-
pervading Bose Einstein Condensate, this experiment can suggest ways to detect it.
Shakti Sthala
 The Karnataka government inaugurated the first phase of a 2,000
megawatts (MW) solar park in the drought-prone Pavagada region of
Tumkur district, about 180km from Bengaluru.
 The solar project, touted as the largest in the world, is spread over 13,000
acres and five villages. It is part of the “Karnataka Solar Policy 2014-
2021” which aims to decrease dependence on traditional power sources and move to
environmentally friendly ones to meet the growing power needs of the state.
 The move is intended to curb the mass migration of people from the region which has been
declared drought-hit in 54 of the last 60 years.
 The park’s development was initiated with the creation of the Karnataka Solar Power
Development Corp. Ltd (KSPDCL) in March 2015 as a joint venture between Karnataka
Renewable Energy Development Ltd (KREDL) and Solar Energy Corp. of India (SECI).
 KSPDCL uses the “plug and play” model, under which it acquires and develops land as
blocks for solar power generation, embedded with the required government approvals, and
gives it out to solar power developers (SPDs) through auctions.
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JNCASR’s novel material to convert waste heat into electricity

A novel compound that exhibits poor thermal conductivity in the 25-425
degree C range but shows good electrical conductivity has been developed by
a team of researchers from Bengaluru’s Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for
Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR). The compound, silver copper
telluride (AgCuTe), shows promise as a thermoelectric material for
converting waste heat into electricity.
Since nearly 65% of utilized energy is wasted as heat, the focus is on developing materials that
exhibit good thermoelectric property with both glass- and metal-like properties. Potential
applications of the thermoelectric technology are in automobile industry, chemical, thermal and
steel power plants where large quantities of heat are wasted.
Due to the low thermal conductivity of the material developed by JNCASR, one end of the 8 mm-
long rod that is contact with waste heat remains hot while the other end maintains cold
temperature. The temperature difference is essential for the generation of electrical voltage. At
the same time, the material exhibits good electrical conductivity like metal.
Govt. forms panel to probe illegal cultivation of HT Cotton

 The government has constituted a committee to investigate into illegal
cultivation of HT cotton in four states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana,
Gujarat and Maharashtra after receiving several representations for ban
of illegal cultivation of Herbicide Tolerant (HT) or BG-III cotton in the
country.
 Department of Biotechnology in the Ministry of Science and Technology has constituted a
Field Inspection and Scientific Evaluation Committee (FISEC) to investigate the matter of
illegal cultivation of HT cotton.
 The cultivation of BG-III or HT cotton has not been approved by Genetic Engineering
Approval Committee (GEAC) of the Ministry of Environment.
HAMMER Spacecraft
NASA and the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) are working
on a new spacecraft design that could potentially deflect a dangerous asteroid
before that happens. The craft is called “HAMMER,” and it does what the name
implies.
HAMMER, which stands for Hypervelocity Asteroid Mitigation Mission for
Emergency Response, has two modes. In its preferred mode of operation, it would act as an
impactor that collides with the asteroid to gently nudge it off course, so it doesn’t hit the planet.
If there’s not enough time for that, HAMMER’s other option is to detonate a nuclear weapon in
order to destroy or deflect the object.
GSLV-F08/GSAT-6A Mission
GSLV-F08 is the 12th flight of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle
(GSLV) and Sixth flight with indigenous Cryogenic Stage. The Launch of GSLV-
F08 carrying GSAT-6A took place from the Second Launch Pad (SLP) in Satish
Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota.
GSAT-6A, similar to GSAT-6 is a high-power S-band communication satellite
configured around I-2K bus. The mission life of spacecraft planned is about 10 years. The satellite
will also provide a platform for developing technologies such as demonstration of 6 m S-Band
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Unfurlable Antenna, handheld ground terminals and network management techniques that
could be useful in satellite based mobile communication applications.
Copernicus
 Copernicus is the most ambitious Earth observation programme to date. It
will provide accurate, timely and easily accessible information to improve
the management of the environment, understand and mitigate the effects
of climate change and ensure civil security.
 Copernicus is the new name for the Global Monitoring for Environment
and Security programme, previously known as GMES.
 This initiative is headed by the European Commission (EC) in partnership with the European
Space Agency (ESA).
Action Plan for Champion Sectors in Services

Why in News
An action plan for 12 champion services sector identified by the ministry of
commerce and industry for special focus has received Cabinet approval.
Champion service sectors
The sectors are IT and IT enabled services(ITes), tourism and hospitality,
medical value travel, transport and logistics, accounting and finance, audio visual, legal,
communication, construction and related engineering, environment, financial and education.
Key Highlights
 A dedicated fund of Rs. 5000 crores has been proposed to be PEPPER IT WITH
established to support initiatives for sectoral Action Plans of the INDIAsize, GDP, GVA
Champion Sectors.
 The Cabinet has also directed the Ministries/Departments
concerned with these sectors to utilize the available draft sectoral plans to finalize and
implement the Action Plans for the identified Champion Services Sectors.
 The respective line Ministries/Departments shall finalize the Action Plans and the
implementation timelines along with a monitoring mechanism to monitor implementation
under the overall guidance of the Committee of Secretaries (CoS) under Cabinet Secretary.
Corollary
 This initiative will enhance the competitiveness of India’s service sectors through the
implementation of focused and monitored action plans, thereby promoting GDP growth,
creating more jobs and promoting exports to global markets
 The move is expected to “promote GDP growth, create more jobs and promote exports.”
 Services sector in India has immense employment potential. The proposal will enhance the
competitiveness of India’s service sectors through the implementation of focused and
monitored Action Plans
 Through these focus sector the government will also targets raising gross value added (GVA)
from about 53% in 2015-16 (61 % including construction services) to 60 % (67% including
construction services) by 2022.
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Important Indices
Human Development Index
Released by:: United Nations Development Programme
Parameters::
1. Life expectancy for Health
2. Expected years of schooling
3. Mean of years of schooling for
education
4. Gross National Income per capita
for standard of living
India’s rank:: 131
Best country:: Norway
Global Human Capital Index
Released by:: World Economic Forum
Parameters::
1. Capacity
2. Development
3. Deployment
4. Know how
India’s rank:: 103
Best country:: Norway
Ease of doing business
Released by:: World Bank
Parameters::
1. Starting a business
2. Dealing with construction permit
3. Electrification
4. Registering property
5. Getting credit
6. Protecting minority investors
7. Paying taxes
8. Trading across borders
9. Enforcing contracts
10. Resolving Insolvency
India Rank: 100
Best country: New Zealand
Relief Measures for Telecom Sector

Why in News
In a bid to provide relief to financially stressed telecom sector, the Cabinet
has allowed telcos to pay for spectrum over 16 years instead of 10 years
and permitted them to hold more airwaves.
The Union Cabinet has approved two key measures in telecom sector to
facilitate investments, consolidation in the sector and enhancing ease of
doing business. These include restructuring the deferred payment liabilities of spectrum auction
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of telecom service providers and revising the limit of the cap for spectrum holding for telecom
service providers.
1. Restructuring of Deferred Payment Liabilities of telecom Service providers for
spectrum
By giving one-time opportunity to opt for higher number of installment (max. 16 installment)
apart from currently permitted 10 installments. The increased installment is based upon the
principle that the Net Present Value (NPV) of the Payment
Due is protected as per respective notice inviting PEPPER IT WITH
application for auction of spectrum from 2012. The total TRAI, Telecom Ombudsman,
amount received will be higher by Rs. 74446.01 crore till WRC, COAI
2034-35.
2. Revision of limits of cap for spectrum holding
Based upon the recommendations of TRAI and Telecom Commission, the Cabinet also
approved the revision of limits of cap for spectrum holding as follows:
a) The overall spectrum cap is revised from the current limit of 25% to 35%.
b) The current intra-band cap is removed. Instead, there is a cap of 50% on the combined
spectrum holding in the sub-1 GHz bands (700 MHz, 800 MHz and 900 MHz bands).
c) There will be no cap for individual or combined spectrum holding in above 1 GHz band.
d) The revised spectrum caps limits may be revisited after Final Acts of World Radio-
communication Conference (WRC) 2019.
Impact
 With the restructuring of the deferred payment liability had been proposed by the inter-
ministerial group (IMG), the cash flow for the telecom service providers will increase in the
immediate timeframe providing them some relief.
 Revising the limit for the spectrum cap holding will facilitate consolidation of telecom
licensees and may encourage the participation in the future auction. The changed limits may
be revisited after the Final Acts of World Radio-communication Conference (WRC) 2019, a
global convention which reviews regulations and international pacts around spectrum.
 The new spectrum caps will facilitate consolidation in the industry - Jio and RCom, and Idea
and Vodafone. It will only have a minimal benefit through cash flow relief, but total payments
will increase.
Way Ahead
While the move to relax spectrum, cap will help in consolidation and time extension would ease
cash flow issues, but these were like ‘short term band-aids’. Long-term systematic issues have
not been addressed and they need to be addressed quickly before more companies get into
financial problems.
The systemic issues of the industry still remain unaddressed, like excessive taxes and levies of
30% or more. We hope the government will accelerate these relief measures. The government
could have given more relief, especially in areas such as licence fee, revenue share, GST, given
that the sector is the most taxed and that it is now considered an essential service.
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Dispute Settlement Body (DSB)

Why in News
In an unprecedented show of unity on the face of a potential crisis, most members of the World
Trade Organisation (WTO), which includes India, have joined forces to work
out a strategy to beat the US action of disrupting the working of the dispute
settlement body (DSB) by blocking appointment of judges.
Issue
 The potential crisis in the DSB is largely due to the US blocking the
appointment of new appeal judges which has resulted in the seven-member Appellate Body
being reduced to just four
 A large group of countries has decided to opt for an alternative mechanism of dispute
resolution, provided for in the WTO rules, which would allow them to have arbitration outside
the DSB. A formal submission on the matter is likely soon.
 The 60 members who proposed to the DSB last month to start the process of appointing
judges are all part of the group looking for an appropriate alternative mechanism. These
include India, China, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Argentina, Bolivia, Russia, Paraguay,
Vietnam, the EU, Peru and Korea.
PEPPER IT WITH
How is it affecting India? Permanent Court of
 In 2016, New Delhi had lost a case against the US at the Arbitration, International
WTO after the global trade body stated that power purchase Court of Arbitration
agreements signed by the Indian government with solar
firms for its National Solar Mission did not meet international trade norms.
 The first request for a panel was struck down by the US, but the DSB, in its meeting, agreed
to India’s second request as WTO rules don’t allow a blockage more than once.
 India, however, has been maintaining that it has complied with the WTO’s ruling. India had
requested the WTO to set up a panel to determine its compliance with the rulings of the
dispute.
DSB
The General Council convenes as the DSB to deal with disputes between WTO members. Such
disputes may arise with respect to any agreement contained in the Final Act of the Uruguay
Round that is subject to the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement
of Disputes (DSU).
The DSB has authority to establish dispute settlement panels, refer matters to arbitration, adopt
panel, Appellate Body and arbitration reports, maintain surveillance over the implementation of
recommendations and rulings contained in such reports, and authorize suspension of
concessions in the event of non-compliance with those recommendations and rulings.
National Financial Reporting Authority

Why in News?
The Union Cabinet recently approved the creation of National Financial
Reporting Authority (NFRA). The NFRA is to be an independent regulator
overseeing the auditing profession. Its creation was first recommended by the
Standing Committee on Finance in its 21st report.
While many provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 came into force in 2014, the setting up of
NFRA, a key recommendation, was delayed. The decision appears to have been prompted by the
latest bank scam to have hit the headlines that went undetected by auditors.
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About NFRA
 Under section 132 of companies Act-2013the Central Government may, by notification,
constitute NFRA to provide for matters relating to accounting and auditing standards.
 NFRA shall consist of a chairperson, who shall be a person of eminence and having expertise
in accountancy, auditing, finance or law to be appointed by the Central Government and
such other members not exceeding fifteen consisting of part-time and full-time members
as may be prescribed.
 It have the power to investigate, either suomotu or on a reference made to it by the
Central Government, for such class of bodies corporate or persons, in such manner as may
be prescribed into the matters of
NFRA have the same powers as are vested in a
professional or other misconduct
Civil Court under the Code of Civil
committed by any member or firm of
Procedure, 1908, while trying a suit, in respect
chartered accountants, registered under
of the following matters:
the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949.
(a) Discovery and production of books of
 The accounts of the NFRA shall be account and other documents, at such
audited by the Comptroller and place and at such time as may be specified
Auditor-General of India at such by the NFRA.
intervals as may be specified by him and (b) Summoning and enforcing the attendance
such accounts as certified by the of persons and examining them on oath.
Comptroller and Auditor-General of (c) Inspection of any books, registers and other
India together with the audit report documents of any person referred to in
thereon shall be forwarded annually to clause (b) at any place.
the Central Government by the NFRA. (d) Issuing commissions for examination of
 It can impose penalty of not less than witnesses or documents.
one lakh rupees, but which may extend
to five times of the fees received, in case of individuals and not less than ten lakh rupees, but
which may extend to ten times of the fees received, in case of firms. It will also have the
power to debar erring auditors or audit firm for up to 10 years.
 The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) had initially voiced its discontent with
the idea of a regulator for the sector, saying the existing structure was adequate. The
government has clarified that the roles of the new regulator and those of the ICAI will not
overlap.
 NFRA would cover all listed companies and large unlisted companies, the benchmark
size for which would be set down in the rules. Smaller unlisted companies would continue
to be audited by the ICAI. ICAI would continue to play
its advisory role with respect to accounting and PEPPER IT WITH
auditing standards and policies by making its
recommendations to the NFRA. The Centre could also Serious Fraud Investigation Office
refer other entities for investigation where public (SFIO), Appellate Authority, CAG,
interest would be involved. Standing committee on finance,
Companies Act 2013
 Quality Review Board (QRB) would continue quality
audits for private limited companies and public
unlisted companies below the prescribed threshold. The NFRA would also have the power
to refer cases to the QRB as and when it decided to do so.
 Most of the major economies of the world have independent audit regulators, and over the
last decade or so, umbrella bodies have come up that have provided an element of cohesion
to these regulators. The International Forum of Independent Audit Regulators (IFIAR)
was set up in 2006, and now it has more than 52 independent audit regulators worldwide
as members.
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Privatisation of PSBs
Several experts, including Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian
and former Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Arvind Panagariya, had pitched for
privatisation of PSBs after spate of frauds were unearthed in state-owned
banks.
Arguments in Favour
 If PSBs are privatised then the banks In October 2017 government of India
approved a recapitalisation plan for PSBs
would be out of the clutches of the CVC,
CBI and CAG, giving more autonomy and worth Rs 2.11 lakh crore. This is not the first
confidence to the top management to lend time PSBs have required capital infusion.
freely without fear of being haunted. Between 2009 and March 2017,
 Efficiency and productivity too demand approximately Rs 1.5 lakh crore of
that the government relinquish its control taxpayers' money was infused into public
of the large number of banks whose market sector banks in order to keep their books in
valuation has dwindled despite the fact proper shape
that they hold the bulk of the deposits.
 Disbursing loans to friendly industrial houses/companies has always been a practice that
has been followed by all political parties in power. Public sector banks have been the
channels through which governments have opted to grant loans to industrial
houses/companies close to them. Subsequently, the inability to pay the amount by some
of these players has led to mounting of bad loans in the books of public sector banks.
 Over Rs 2.6 lakh crore capital infusion in
the past eleven years has had limited The RBI came out with its list of 40 defaulter
impact in improving their health, and the firms in two phases last year who are
move would also reduce drain on the accountable for Rs 2 lakh crore of bad loans.
exchequer. Among the lenders who have taken the hit are
Arguments Against private sector banks too. That also means not
 This (privatisation) involves a large all loans granted by public sector banks go
political consensus. Also, that involves bad. There are private sector banks too which
an amendment to the law (Banking have followed public sector banks off late.
Regulation Act).
 Public sector banks have become a
channel for subsequent governments to extend benefits of their welfare schemes to the
people. A recent example of the same is the opening of nearly 30 crore Jan Dhan accounts
in PSBs for the purpose of financial inclusion. Privatisation of public sector banks will close
this route for disbursing funds for welfare of the people.
PEPPER IT WITH
 Every year, the government announces in its Budget
funds to be allocated for the overall development of Muhammad Yunus, The
economy. The government losing control over committee on Banking Sector
public sector banks will lead to the drying of Reforms, The committee on
pipeline of funds to different sectors for economic Financial system (Narasimham
growth. committee), Domestic
 The RBI in its half yearly financial stability report in Systemically Important Banks
December 2017 observed while NPAs of the public- (D-SIBs)
sector banks increased by 17 per cent on year-on-year
basis in September, the rate of increase was 40.8 per
cent in the case of private sector banks during the same period.
Conclusion
A dynamic banking sector is the need of the hour and we should examine if there is at all a case
for public sector domination in the banking sector. India needs sustainable high growth for
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its socio-economic development which will not be possible in the absence of support from
a robust healthy financial sector. PSBs, which constitute almost 70 per cent of the Indian
banking system, are saddled with burgeoning stressed assets. Privatisation of PSBs is not a
permanent solution and will not be effective unless the inherent issues related to governance,
productivity, risk management, talent, customer service, etc. are resolved.
'India Size Chart' Survey

 Seeking to come up with a standardised "India size chart" for the garment
industry, the NIFT, under the aegis of the ministry of textiles, will
soon begin a national survey that will sample 25,000 people using
high-tech 3D whole body scanners.
 The National Sizing Survey will cost nearly Rs 30 crore and entail
studying a population, aged 15-65 across six cities, with men and women
in equal numbers.
 This would be a scientific exercise where anthropometric data will be collected from a sample
population of 25,000 to create a database of measurements that will culminate in a
standardised size chart, truly be representative of the Indian population, which can then be
adopted by the entire apparel industry.
 The project will be carried out in six cities spread across six regions of the country --
Kolkata (east), Mumbai (west), New Delhi (north), Hyderabad (centre), Bengaluru (south), and
Shillong (northeast) using 3D whole body scanners.
 In India, either the US or the UK system of 'Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large' has been
used, and people then go for fitting accordingly. But, after this uniform size chart is available,
whole country will have a "standard reference point" for ready-to-wear industry.
Centre sets up Panel to study issues in Fintech Space

The Centre has set up a steering committee to go into various issues relating to Fintech space in
India. The committee will be headed by Subhash Chandra Garg, Secretary, Department of
Economic Affairs. The move is a follow up to the announcement made by
Finance Minister Arun in his Budget speech of 2018-19.
Significance
1. The committee will consider means of using data with GSTN and data
residing with information utilities such as credit information companies
(CICs) and others in open domain with a view to developing applications for financing of
micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
2. It will also develop regulatory interventions e.g., regulatory sandbox model, that will enhance
the role of Fintech in sectors identified for focused interventions. The ideas is to facilitate
ease of doing business in the Fintech sector.
3. According to the terms of reference, the committee will work with government agencies such
as UIDAI to explore creation and use of unique enterprise identification number. It will also
look into the possibility of international co-operation opportunities in Fintech with countries
such as Singapore, the U.K., China and others.
Fintech
Fintech is a portmanteau of financial technology that describes an emerging financial
services sector in the 21st century. Originally, the term applied to technology applied to the
back-end of established consumer and trade financial institutions. Since the end of the first
decade of the 21st century, the term has expanded to include any technological innovation in
the financial sector, including innovations in financial literacy and education, retail banking,
investment and even crypto-currencies like bitcoin.
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Continental Free Trade Area

In News
The leaders of 44 African countries have signed a deal to create one of the
world's largest free trade blocs. The agreement was signed at a summit in
the Rwandan capital, Kigali. It is hoped the deal will come into force within
six months and increase prosperity for 1.2 billion Africans.
But 10 countries, including Nigeria, have refused to sign the deal, and it will need to be ratified
by all the signatories' national parliaments before the bloc becomes a reality.
One of the obstacles is the relatively low level of manufacturing that takes place on a continent
where trade often means selling raw materials to the outside world. Another is getting Africa's
largest economy, Nigeria, on board.
Significance
1. The African Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) would remove barriers to trade, like tariffs
and import quotas, allowing the free flow of goods and services between its members.
2. Trade between African countries is relatively low. It accounts for only 10% of all commerce
on the continent - compared with 25% in south-east Asia.
3. Once the free trade area is established, the ambition is to take
further steps that echo the creation of the European Union - PEPPER IT WITH
like a customs union, a common market, and even a single India Ethiopia Agreements
currency. India-Somalia Agreement
African Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) Horn Of Africa, ICC, ICJ
The 18th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and
Government of the African Union, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in January 2012, adopted a
decision to establish a Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) by an indicative date of 2017.
Objective
The main objectives of the CFTA are to create a single continental market for goods and services,
with free movement of business persons and investments, and thus pave the way for accelerating
the establishment of the Customs Union.
Functions
It will also expand intra-African trade through better harmonization and coordination of trade
liberalization and facilitation and instruments across the RECs and across Africa in general. The
CFTA is also expected to enhance competitiveness at the industry and enterprise level through
exploitation of opportunities for scale production, continental market access and better
reallocation of resources. The establishment of the CFTA and the implementation of the Action
Plan on Boosting Intra-African Trade (BIAT) provide a comprehensive framework to pursue a
developmental regionalism strategy.
Draft Policy on Defence Production

Why in News?
The Department of Defence Production (DDP) of the Ministry of Defence
(MoD) released a draft policy recently. The draft Defence Production
Policy (DPrP) 2018 is intended to replace the earlier policy
promulgated in 2011.
The broad mission of the draft policy is to promote the Make in India initiative in the defence
sector and create a world-class arm manufacturing base, fulfilling not only the larger goal of self-
reliance but also the requirements of friendly foreign countries. The laudable mission
notwithstanding, the draft policy suffers from a number of shortcomings, which, if left
unaddressed, may limit its usefulness.
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Salient Features:
 The draft DPrP 2018 is ambitious and forward looking. Unlike the 2011 policy, the draft of
the 2018 policy sets a clear vision, a set of objectives and strategies.
 Its vision is to put India “among the top five countries of the world in aerospace and
defence industries” though the timeframe within which this is to be achieved has not been
articulated.
 The key objectives of the policy include development of a strong defence industry leading to
higher self-reliance.
 Setting its sight on the need to reduce the The draft policy talks of further ease of doing
current high import dependency, the draft
business for the industry by:
policy identifies 13 sets of weapon
systems/platforms whose development  Including the Micro, Small and
and manufacture would commence Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
latest by 2025.
 Pruning the existing list of items
 Other objectives include an increase in subject to industrial licence.
domestic arms sales to Rs 170,000 crore
 Increasing the FDI cap under
($26 billion) by 2025, with around one-
fifths of it –Rs 35,000 crore ($5.0 billion) – automatic route from the current 49
coming through exports. to 74 per cent for certain niche
 The policy also intends to make India a technologies.
“global leader in cyberspace and AI  Streamlining the offset policy to
[artificial intelligence] technologies.” attract investment and facilitate the
Challenges speedy and transparent execution of
1. The policy does not identify any specific offsets.
new projects by name that would have  Rationalising the taxation system to
given the industry an indication of the support domestic manufacturing.
likely business prospects. Without such
an indication, the draft policy suffers
from the same uncertainty that the To put the country among the top-five
previous policy faced. A simple step to aerospace and defence manufacturing
mitigate this policy gap would have countries, as the draft policy’s vision states,
been to deduce a comprehensive would mean India joining the ranks of such
production list from the approved
countries as US, Russia, France, UK and
Long Term Integrated Perspective
China, which are presently the global leaders
Plan (LTIPP), which projects the
services’ equipment requirements in arms production. To join such a coveted club
over a 15-year time horizon. The would also mean some of the established Indian
deduced list could have further been defence manufactures breaking into the club of
divided into two broad categories: items top global arms producers. Can this happen in a
to be produced based on domestic R&D, realistic timeframe of say the next 10 years?
and items to be produced under license. At present not a single Indian defence company
2. The draft policy, like its predecessor, figures in the list of top-10 global companies,
does not fully address the private though India is counted among the top-five
sector’s trust deficit with the military spenders in the world (Also the
government, even though the former is largest importer of arms). As per the US-
expected to play a major role under the based Defense News’s list of top-100 defence
Make in India initiative. companies in 2017, HAL, India’s biggest defence
Notwithstanding the various promises, company, is placed at 35 and Bharat Electronics
including that of providing open
Ltd (BEL), the second biggest Defence Public
competition in contracts, the private
Sector Undertaking (DPSU), at 59.
sector has a genuine reason to mistrust
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the policy in the making. The mistrust

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is largely due to the representation of senior MoD officials in the governing boards of
the defence public sector companies, which often leads to the nomination of larger
contracts in their favour.
3. DPrP does not address the issues of inefficiency and lack of accountability on the part of the
DRDO, DPSUs and OFs, which, being the mainstay of Indian defence industry for the last
several decades, are responsible for much of the indignity of the country’s poor track record
in attaining self-reliance. Instead of suggesting some bold steps to reform these entities, the
draft policy merely talks of the professionalization of OFs and “disinvestment of minority
stakes in DPSUs.”
4. The policy also faces stiff budgetary constraints that may not allow the policy’s
promised investments to fructify in a time bound manner. In all, the draft policy talks of
investments worth over Rs 77,000 crore by 2025—–which includes nearly Rs 70,000 crore
as additional investment to increase domestic production. In all likelihood, these investments
will come largely from the defence budget, either directly or indirectly. To accommodate such
a large investment, the defence budget has to provide an extra Rs 11,000 crore or so per year
for next six to seven years.
Conclusion
PEPPER IT WITH
The achievability of the stated objectives and
goals in the draft policy does not seem to be in Defence investor cell, IDDM, Technology
sync with the current trajectory of defence budget Perspective Capability Roadmap, Make II
outlays. The credibility of the new defence process, FDI in Defence
production policy is inextricably interlinked with
the financial viability of the roadmap envisaged
therein as well as the ability of the MoD to take hard decisions to remove programme-specific
roadblocks. The track record on this count is not very encouraging.
Exercises
Varuna-18
 The navies of India and France engaged in a joint bilateral exercise,
"Varuna-18", in the Arabian Sea off the Goa coast, which commenced
days after the leaders of the two countries decided to further deepen
their maritime cooperation.
 The drill included anti-submarine, air defence and asymmetric engagement exercises.
 The two countries explored the measures to facilitate the operational-level interactions
between their respective armed forces and increase mutual cooperation, considering the
common global threats.
 The exercise also comes at a time when the Indian Ocean is witnessing an increased
Chinese naval presence.
Multilateral naval exercise
 The Indian Navy held an eight-day-long mega naval exercise along with leading maritime
powers of the region at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, amid heightened regional
tension in the region.
 The biennial exercise — Milan — is taking place in the backdrop of imposition of state of
emergency in Maldives and Sri Lanka, two of India's maritime neighbours, and China's
growing assertiveness in the region.
 Indian Navy officials said 28 warships including 17 from India and 11 from Australia,
Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand are
participating in the exercise.
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 The aim of the 10th edition of the exercise is to expand regional cooperation and combat
unlawful activities in critical sea lanes.
 Maldives, which is reeling under political crisis, has declined India's offer to participate
at the exercise citing the current situation in the island nation.
 'Milan' was first held in 1995 with the participation of just five navies. The aim of the
initiative was to have an effective forum to discuss common concerns in the Indian Ocean
Region and forge deeper cooperation among friendly navies.
Multilateral air Exercise (MAE)
 The first Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise of the Indian Air
Force (IAF) in association with South Asian Region nations was held off the coast of Kerala
from March 12 to 17.
 The multilateral exercise named ‘Samvedna’ involved representatives from air forces of
Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and the UAE.
 The objective of the exercise was to galvanise all stakeholders in synergising unified HADR
efforts. The exercise, spearheaded by IAF and conducted by Southern Air Command
(SAC), was to ensure better understanding and sharing of response procedures between
a number of friendly neighbouring nations.
Significance
 Samvedna, which means 'Empathy', was focused on practicing Air Force-centric HADR
solutions in a Multi-national cooperative Disaster Management environment.
 This exercise helped in putting in place a basic framework for the conduct of Joint Air
HADR operations, which will be further refined during subsequent exercises. This
exercise is expected to lead to more coordinated and efficient HADR Air operations in the
entire South Asian region when the need arises.
Paschim Leher
 The Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy concluded a major operational exercise,
conducted in the Arabian Sea. The nine-day Long, Exercise Paschim Leher (XPL) tested
the combat readiness of the Command at sea, including mobilisation and operational
synchronisation.
 A large number of ships, submarines and aircraft participated in the exercise. Various
manoeuvres and deployments were exercised, in a networked environment, with a
number of support units ashore also participating.
 The exercise also saw participation of Indian Air Force, with a number of aircraft, and
Indian Coast Guard units. The scale of the exercise was enhanced this year, and the
exercise itself was renamed as Exercise Paschim Leher. Proactive operations as well as
defensive operations were exercised, including various contingencies off the coasts of
Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka.
LAMITYE 2018
 Joint military exercise 'Lamitye', was held between India and Seychelles.
 The joint military exercise is named 'Lamitye' which in the local dialect 'Creole' means
friendship. This exercise was the eighth in the series of bilateral exercises being
conducted in the beautiful island nation.
 India and Seychelles have been conducting this joint exercise since 2001 with the aim of
enhancing military cooperation and interoperability between the armies of the two
countries.
 The focus of the ongoing exercise is to conduct counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist
operations in semi-urban environment under the United Nations (UN) Charter.
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Crime Free Zone along International Border

 Border Security Force (BSF) of India and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB)
of Bangladesh declared an 8.3 km stretch of the Indo-Bangladesh
border as a 'crime-free zone' recently. The aim of creating a crime-free
zone is to have select border locations that are clear of illegal, anti-social
and criminal activities
 Both border guarding forces with the help of the
civil administrations of the two countries, NGOs and India sharing international
the local populance will help in ensuring that no crime Land boundary
takes place along the stretch that covers the
Gunarmath and Kalyani Border Out Posts (BOPs) in Bangladesh: 4,096.7
India and the Puthkhali and Daulatpur BOPs across China: 3,488
the border.
 This will add a new dimension to border management Pakistan: 3,323
with all countries in the world concerned about
terrorism and crimes such as smuggling of drugs and Nepal: 1,751
human trafficking. Both the forces will work together
Myanmar: 1,643
to ensure that no crime or anti-social activity
occurs along this stretch. Bhutan: 699
 This is a positive and constructive way of border
management. The decision was taken during the DG Afghanistan: 106
level talks in New Delhi in October 2017. This is a
pilot project that will be reviewed after 5-6 months. Once the pilot
project succeeded, similar crime-free zones would be created all PEPPER IT WITH
along the 4,096-km border that ran across various states.
 This stretch is one of the most vulnerable with cattle smuggling Border Haat, Thengar
and other criminal activities prevalent. The idea is to target the Chaar, Teesta River
more difficult areas along the 913 km of Indo-Bangladesh border
under the BSF's South Bengal Frontier.
Kuthiyottam Ritual
Why in News
The Kerala State Commission for the Protection of Child Rights registered a
suomotucase in connection with the Kuthiyottam ritual. The commission said
it would examine if the ritual, reportedly involving piercing children’s sides
with a hook, violated child rights in any manner.
About Kuthiyottam
 The Kuthiyottam ritual is usually performed every year during the Pongala festival at the
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
 It is also performed in Bhadrakali temples of Alappuzha and Kollam and is conducted in the
Malayalam month of Kumbham (February/March).
 According to Kerala's Department of Tourism, the Attukal Pongala festival is the largest
congregation of women for a festival in the world. Pongala, which means 'to boil over’, is a
ritual in which women prepare a pudding made from rice, jaggery, coconut and plantains
cooked together, and offer it to the goddess. The ritual can only be performed by women, and
the streets of the city are known to be jam packed with devotees during the festival.
What does the Kuthiyottam ritual involve?
Nearly 1,000 young boys undertake a seven-day penance before Pongala day. According to an
earlier report by The Hindu, these boys are said to represent the wounded soldiers of the goddess.
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“The boys have to observe strict discipline and stay inside the temple for seven days. The rigours
include sleeping on the floor, strict diet restrictions, and bathing three times a day. They also
have to prostrate 1,008 times before the deity,” the report said.
The ritual also reportedly involves piercing the child’s side with a small hook and knotting
a thread through it to symbolise their bond with the Goddess.
Nabakalebar festival
President Ram Nath Kovind released commemorative coins in denominations of ₹10 and ₹1000
on Lord Jagannath’s Nabakalebar festival.
The President, who is visiting Odisha, released the coins during the centenary
celebration of Rastriya Sanskrit Sansthan in Puri. He described the pilgrim
town of Puri as the ‘Vidya Nagri’ (education hub) for its connection with
knowledge and science since ancient times.
Nabakalebara Festival
 Nabakalebara is a festival observed in the Shree Jagannath Temple at Puri at a predefined
time according to Hindu Calender. Naba means new and Kalebara is body. Lord Shree
Jagannath adornes a new body during Nabakalebara. It is the re-embodiment of Lord
Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Sudarshan when they relinquish
their old bodies and assume a new one. However, the Brahmapadartha (soul-
substance) remains the same.
 The soul or the Brahma is transferred from the old idols to their new bodies in a highly
technical and conspicious manner, prescribed and inherited from generations by the
Daitas and the Rakshaks. They are the up-keepers of the Shreeangas or the bodies of the
trinity of the Grand Temple.
 The Nabakalebara niti is observed in a gap of 12 to 19 years. Most of the Nabakalebars
are performed after a gap of almost 19 years as in 1912, 1931, 1950, 1969, 1977 and
1996.
Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

 The Festival of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (FINE) {previously known as Festival of
Innovation FOIN)} is a unique initiative of the Office of the President of India to
recognise, respect and reward grassroots innovations and foster a
supportive ecosystem.
 Hosted in the month of March at The President's House, the FOIN has
become a national celebration of creativity and innovation at and for
grassroots. This year FINE was organised from March 19-21, 2018 at
Rashtrapati Bhavan by the President's Secretariat in association with National Innovation
Foundation-India and Department of Science & Technology.
 FINE is a celebration of country's Innovation potential, particularly those ideas which
stem from grassroots level including the citizen at the last mile and also a reflection
of power of children's creativity.
 FINE provides platform to the innovators for building the linkages with potential stakeholders
whose support can improve their prospects in coming years for the larger social good. It also
helps in promoting lateral learning and linkages among the innovators to enrich the
ecosystem for new India.
 It is imperative that India becomes a growth engine for the world and provides a new model
of inclusive development by providing a large number of open technological and other
solutions for the developing and developed world. In sync with the policies of the government
of India, FINE aims to provide a window to the creative and innovative solutions for social
development through grassroots innovations, student ideas and other technologies for
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agriculture, rural development, sanitation, health, women and child development,

biotechnology and medical innovation for grassroots.
Tribal Diaries
 The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has developed an android based mobile
application called Tribal Diaries for internal monitoring and also
connecting with officers/officials concerned with implementation of
schemes / programmes for tribal development.
 The application is for accredited users. This application provides an
opportunity for visual
feedback in terms of Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring
photographs, videos, System (CPGRAMS)
uploading reports of
official tours / It is an online web-enabled system is the platform which
inspections and sharing primarily aims to enable submission of grievances by the
of best practices etc. aggrieved citizens from anywhere and anytime.
 The application is being
extensively used to get an overview of the Ekalavya Model Residential
Schools (EMRSs) funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The PEPPER IT WITH
principals of the EMRS are being encouraged to use the application
and create projects highlighting the physical infrastructure of the Madhavpur Mela
schools, special achievement of the students and share success
stories.
Wings India-2018
 The four-day biennial event ‘WINGS INDIA 2018', jointly organized by Ministry of Civil
Aviation and Airport Authority of India and FICCI was held in
Hyderabad.
 The theme for this year’s event was ‘India-Global Aviation Hub’. WINGS
INDIA 2018 is a platform for interactions, forging alliances, investments
and air connectivity between the States and the global aviation players &
stakeholders.
 WINGS 2018 saw the representation from 10 countries. Besides the conference and
exhibition, Roundtables on Tourism, Cargo and Logistics and Skills and G2B and B2B
meetings were also held.
 The conference focused on fostering partnership to transform Indian aviation and the role of
conducive regulatory framework to facilitate growth of civil aviation market.
 Coinciding with WINGS India 2018, FICCI launched its maiden edition of ‘WINGS INDIA
AWARDS’ for Excellence in the aviation sector. The awards were conferred upon the
Aviation-related Companies/Institutions/Organizations in 14 categories.
 Government of India is committed to connecting the cities and towns to increase regional
connectivity in the country and is also emphasizing the aviation sector to grow at 15% over
the next couple of decades.
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Chipko Movement
 Google Doodle marked the 45th anniversary of the forest conservation initiative called
the Chipko Movement.
 The goal of the Chipko Movement was to draw attention to and prevent
deforestation, which had begun to occur on a mass scale to make way for
dams or industry or roads. The movement began in 1973 in Uttar
Pradesh, and was an initiative of Sunderlal Bahuguna, a renowned
environmentalist.
 The 1973 movement was inspired by a similar movement in 1730 AD in Rajasthan. During
the 18th century movement, as many as 363 people are said to have sacrificed their lives to
save 'khejri' trees.
Dr. Anandibai Joshi

 31st March was the 152nd birth anniversary of Dr Anandi Joshi, who
fought her way to become India’s first lady doctor.
 Dr Joshi lived a mere 21 years but achieved so much in that brief span
that a crater on Venus has been named in her honour. The 34.3 km-
diameter crater on Venus named ‘Joshee’ lies at latitude 5.5° N and
longitude 288.8° E.
 She was also the first Indian woman who was trained in western medicine and the first
woman to travel to the United States of America.
Smart India Hackathon-2018

All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) under the aegis of the Ministry of Human
Resource Development (MHRD) in collaboration with i4c, MyGov, Persistent
Systems and Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhin organized Smart India
Hackathon 2018.
SIH- 2018 harnesses creativity and expertise of students, builds funnel for
‘Startup India, Standup India’ campaign, crowd sources solutions for improving governance and
quality of life, and provides opportunity to Students to provide innovative solutions to India’s
daunting problems. SIH- 2018 would be the second massive scale hackathon initiative in India
following Smart India Hackathon 2017.
Diu becomes First UT to run 100% on Solar Power

 The harnessing of solar energy has made Diu the country’s first energy
surplus Union territory and a model for an effective way for people to
harness this renewable energy source.
 In just three years, Diu has made rapid progress in solar power
generation. The Union territory has an area of just 42 square kilometers.
Despite scarcity of land, solar power plants have been installed over more than 50 acres.
 Diu generates a total of 13 megawatts of electricity from solar power generating facilities
daily. Around 3 MW is generated by rooftop solar plants and 10 MW by its other solar power
plants.
69
Page

Concept Clearing Assignment

1. Briefly discuss Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme. Bring out the salient
features of this scheme and comment on how it will help in the employment generation in
backward states.
2. Without setting standards for learning, school management and things like attendance
rate, qualification of teachers, infrastructure, how do you make sure states priorities and
do not neglect the sector after subsuming of the three schemes into Integrated Scheme for
School Education?
3. “Fighting Drug Trafficking Equals Fighting Terrorism”. The two phenomena of narcotics
trafficking, and terrorism are interconnected and subsequently that a coordination of anti-
drug and anti-terror policy can be used. Elucidate the initiatives adopted by GoI to
effectively deal with both threats.
4. In a bid to provide relief to financially stressed telecom sector, the Cabinet has allowed
telcos to pay for spectrum over 16 years instead of 10 years and permitted them to hold
more airwaves. How this relief measure will impact the Indian economy in Telecom sector?
Critically analyse.
5. Bring out the salient features of Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018. How it will address
the lacunae in the present laws and lay down measures to deter economic offenders from
evading the process of Indian law by remaining outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts?
6. Central government recently approved the creation of Nation Financial Reporting Authority
(NFRA). What are the objectives and impacts of the regulator? Is there really a need for yet
another regulator?
7. Big private banks have also shown sudden increase in NPA after 2015 on the lines of public
sector banks. Hence, privatisation of PSBs is certainly not the only solution to the bad
loans problem plaguing the banking system. What steps do you suggest for solving the
problem of bad loans in India?
8. Stepping up strategic cooperation, India and France signed a pact that will enable their
defence forces to access each other’s facilities and extend logistical support on a reciprocal
basis. Bring out the key highlights of the pact and critically analyse how it will affect Indian
Defence logistics in present scenario?
9. India is keen to sign the agreement with Myanmar to streamline the free movement of
people within 16 km along the border. How it affects the Rohingya Crisis? Elucidate.
10. Briefly discuss African Continental Free Trade Area and discuss the significance of its
impact on trade relation with India.
11. Discuss the key highlights of ISA. Highlight the major hurdles in the successful
implementation of ISA agendas at global level.
12. India is all set to become the 69th member of the European Bank for Reconstruction and
Development (EBRD). How EBRD membership will affect the major leading Indian
companies, such as Tata, Mahindra, SREI and Jindal, on investments in its regions.
Critically analyse.
13. What is Fintech? How the fight between information technology, fintech and e-
commerce firms in India and Google and Facebook will affect the Net Neutrality? Comment.
14. Briefly discuss LaQshya scheme. How will this scheme improve quality of care provided to
pregnant mother in Labour Room and Maternity Operation Theatres (OTs)?
15. Discuss about RIMES and its role in combating natural disasters in India.
16. How will ‘Draft policy on defence production’ help India in realizing ambitious goals of
making India one of the world’s top five defence manufacturers and a global leader in
cyberspace and artificial intelligence; achieving self-reliance by 2025? Critically analyse.
70
Page

P.T Oriented Questions

1. Consider the following statements about
National Financial Reporting Authority 5. Consider the following about Swadhar
and mark the correct one/ones. Greh and choose the correct one/s
(1) It is to be headed by the retired judge (1) It is a supportive institutional
of Supreme Court framework for women victims.
(2) While trying a suit, it have the same (2) The benefit of the component could
power as vested in a civil court be availed by women above 18 years
(3) It can function suo-motu or on a of age.
reference made to it by the Code:
central/state government (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
Code: (c) 1 and 2 (d) None
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only 6. Consider the following about Healthy
(c) Only 2 States, Progressive India Report and
(d) All of the above choose the correct one/s
2. Consider the following statements about (1) It has been developed by NITI
LaQshya programme Aayog, with technical assistance
(1) It is a country-vide initiative from the WHO.
(2) The programme will reduce maternal (2) It is the first attempt to establish an
and newborn morbidity annual systematic tool to measure
(3) It is being implemented at Medical and understand the heterogeneity
College Hospitals, District Hospitals and complexity of the nation’s
and Community Health Center performance in Health.
(CHCs) Code:
Which among the following are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (c) 1 and 2 (d) None
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only 7. Consider the following about National
(d) All of the above Productivity Council and choose the
correct one/s
3. Which among the following are not the
members of Regional Multi-Hazard Early (1) NPC is mission Oriented apex
Warning System Integrated (RIMES) organization to promote the cause
of productivity in all sectors of the
(1) Timor-Leste Indian economy.
(2) Mongolia (2) It is an autonomous organisation
(3) Mauritius under Ministry of Micro, Small and
Code: Medium Enterprises.
(a) 1 and 2 only Code:
(b) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 (d) None
(d) All of the above
8. Operation Greens is related to:
4. Democracy Index is released by (a) Doubling Farmers Income
(a) UNHCR (b) Horticulture
(b) Economic Intelligence Unit (c) Environment Financing
(c) WEF (d) Afforestation
71
(d) UNO
Page

9. Consider the following about corruption 14. Consider the following statements about
perception index and choose the correct No-Confidence Motion (NCM) and
one/s choose the correct one/ones:
(1) It is published by Transparency (1) There is no mention of NCM in the
International constitution of India
(2) India has been worst placed among (2) A NCM can be moved in both the
SAARC members. houses of parliament
Code: Code:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 only
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
10. Consider the following about Ashgabat (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Agreement and choose the correct one/s
(1) Ashgabat Agreement envisages 15. Which among the following is not a
facilitation of transit and criterion for granting special status to a
transportation of goods between state
Central Asia and the Persian Gulf. (a) Low population density
(2) India is the only SAARC country to (b) Strategic location along the borders
join Ashgabat agreement. of the country
Code: (c) Economic and infrastructure
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only backwardness
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None (d) None of the above
11. Minamata convention is on 16. Consider the following statements about

(a) Mercury Enemy Property Act (1968) and choose
(b) Ozone the correct one/s
(c) Global Warming (1) The Act was a result of the war
(d) Migration fought in 1960’s by India
(2) It implies to China, Pakistan and
Bangladesh
12. Consider the following about olive Ridley
turtles and choose the correct one/s Code:
(1) Garimatha beach is the largest (a) 1 only
nesting area of Olive Ridley Turtles. (b) 2 only
(2) They have been classifies as (c) Both 1 and 2
Endangered by IUCN. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Code:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 17. Women Entrepreneurship Programme
(c) 1 and 2 (d) None was launched by which among the
following
13. Y H Malegam committee has been (a) World Economic Forum
constituted to look into (b) World Trade Organisation
(a) GST rates (c) Niti Ayog
(b) Financial Inclusion (d) None of the above
(c) Digital Transaction
(d) Bad Loans 18. Consider the following statements about
Income Tax Appellate Tribunal
(1) It is judicial body
72
Page

(2) It functions under Ministry of Law

and Justice 22. Consider the following statements about
(3) It can only be headed by a retired Know India Program (KIP) and mark the
judge of high Court correct one/ones
Which of the statement/s given above (1) It is an initiative of Government of
are correct? India and Commonwealth nations
(a) 1 and 2 only (2) Minimum qualification required for
(b) Only 2 KIP is graduation from a recognized
(c) 2 and 3 only university
(d) None of the above Code:
(a) 1 only
19. River Mahanadi flows between which (b) 2 only
among the following countries/states: (c) Both 1 and 2
(1) Chhattisgarh (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(2) Madhya Pradesh
(3) Orissa 23. National e-mobility program is being
Code: implemented by which among the
following
(a) 1 and 2 only
(a) Energy Efficiency Services Limited
(b) 2 and 3 only
(b) Bureau of energy efficiency
(c) 1 and 3 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) All of the above
(d) None of the above
20. Which among the following statements

are correct about Mahanadi? 24. Namaste Shalom, a magazine is devoted
to which among the following
(1) It originates from Sihawa mountains
(a) India-France relations
(2) Hirakud dam is situated on this river
(b) India-Afghanistan relations
(3) Tel and Mand are tributaries of
Mahanadi (c) India-Israel relations
Code: (d) India-Nigeria relations
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only 25. Consider the following statements about
International Criminal Court (ICC)
(c) 1 and 3 only
(1) It is World’s only permanent crime
(d) All of the above court
(2) It was established after Nairobi
21. Which among the following is/are correct declaration
about 97th amendment of the Which among the statements given above
constitution of India? is/are correct?
(1) It made right to form a cooperative (a) 1 only
society a fundamental right
(b) 2 only
(2) It added a new article in Part IV of the
constitution (c) Both 1 and 2
Code: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only 26. World Happiness Index is published by
which among the following
(c) Both 1 and 2
(a) International Bank for
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 reconstruction and Development
73
Page

(b) UNESCO (c) 1,2 and 4 only

(c) United Nations Sustainable (d) 1,3 and 4 only
development Network
(d) None of the above 29. Consider the following statements
(1) Nabakalebar festival is situated in
27. Consider the following statements about Karnataka
Animal Welfare Board of India and (2) Madai festival is celebrated in
choose the correct ones Jharkhand only
(1) It is a statutory body Code:
(2) It is headquartered in New Delhi (a) 1 only
(3) The term of office of members of the (b) 2 only
board is of 3 years (c) Both 1 and 2
Code: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only 30. Consider the following statements about
(c) 1 and 3 only Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) of World
(d) All of the above trade organization (WTO)
(1) The general council convenes as the
28. Which among the following countries DSB
signed the Brazzaville declaration? (2) It deals with disputes between WTO
(1) Indonesia members only
(2) Democratic republic of Congo Which of the statements given above
(3) Kenya is/are correct?
(4) Namibia (a) 1 only
Code: (b) 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(b) 2,3 and 4 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2
74
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52. Neutrino project gets environmental nod 44

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Special Status to Andhra Pradesh

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Transformation of Aspirational Districts

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1. Agriculture and water resources

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5. 27 ministries of GoI remain partners of IMPRINT-2

Sri Lanka declares state of emergency

Enemy Property Act

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What are enemy properties?

Protected Area Permit

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Vehicle Scrapping Policy

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International Women’s Day 2018

Women Entrepreneurship Platform

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 WEP is to operate within a broader framework of

Rajasthan passes Bill to give Death Penalty for Child Rape

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Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018

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Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT)

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POWERS AND FUNCTIONS:

Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal

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Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems

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Co-operative Election Authority

Higher Educational Institutions granted autonomy

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1. Academic reputation and previous performance in university examinations and its

India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians

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National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement

help of National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre of AIIMS.

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Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana

Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry

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Social Security for Construction Workers

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Know India Programme (KIP)

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Mission & Vision

National E-Mobility Programme

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Social Security Scheme

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Integrated Scheme for School Education

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Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)

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India, Vietnam ink three MoUs

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